Madam Martina Deri, the Project Lead at the SOS Children’s Village (SOS CV), Non-Governmental Organisation, has said that child protection is a vital responsibility that requires the commitment of every member of society.
She stated that children were the foundation of communities and the hope for the future, thus it was a sacred duty of society to ensure they grew up in safe and nurturing environments where their rights were respected, and their potential could flourish.
Madam Deri said this at a durbar organised by SOS CV at Adaklu- Goefe in the Adaklu District of the Volta Region to inaugurate the District and Community Child Protection Committees.
The Project Lead asked traditional leaders who were the custodians of traditions to champion child protection issues as they hold immense influence in shaping the lives of young ones.
“Your guidance can protect children from harm and promote practices that honor their dignity and well-being,” she said.
Madam Deri urged the Adaklu District to embrace child protection as a shared responsibility and urged society to stand against all forms of violence and discrimination that rob children of their childhood and opportunities.
She said children faced threats including neglect, abuse, exploitation, and harmful cultural practices and these endangered their health, education and happiness, therefore, “let us educate ourselves and others about children’s rights and the laws that safeguard them.”
The Project Lead underscored the need to strengthen families, schools, and social systems to create safe spaces where children could learn, play, and grow free from fear.
Madam Deri said SOS CV would continue to work hand in hand with government agencies, civil society organisations and traditional institutions to build a future where every child was valued and protected.
She advised the beneficiaries of the project, especially caregivers to embrace it and be dedicated and committed to ensuring its success, stressing, “by protecting them, we protect our heritage and secure a brighter tomorrow for all.”
Mr Mathew Ayamba, the Adaklu District Director of the Ghana Health Service, emphasised that children played critical roles in accelerating development of countries across the globe.
He expressed concern about the growing incidence of teen pregnancies in the communities and advocated practical solutions.
The Director said the Ghana Health Service would continue to do its best to protect the rights and well-being of children and offer them the best services that would promote their health.
Togbe Sasraku IV, the Chief of Goefe, thanked SOS Children’s Village for choosing the Adaklu District to carry out their initiative for the protection of children’s rights and safety, and expressed his full support for the project.
GNA
