The Ghana National Coordinator for the Global Movement of Pan-African Women Leaders (PAWL) has emphasized the importance of African countries in championing the children’s rights to empower them for a brighter future and drive accelerated development.
Lamisi Adene Kumordzie highlighted that the future depends on children’s ability to leverage modern technology and knowledge to solve societal issues and stressed that fostering an environment where children can thrive and achieve their potential is essential.
“We often leave the children because we think that they do not know much, but if we put two or three children together, the kind of ideas they will bring on board will marvel us, so, we must give them the right to speak and voice out,” she said.
Mrs. Kumordzie spoke to stakeholders and students during this year’s International Day of the African Child Conference, hosted by the Global Movement of Pan-African Women Leaders in Bolgatanga, located in the Upper East Region.
It was held on the theme, “Educate an African child, fit for the 21st century”.
In addition to ensuring that every African child receives an education, Mrs. Kumordzie noted that children possess immense talents. She stressed the importance of stakeholders prioritizing the health and well-being of children, including access to nutrition, fundamental rights, and a supportive environment to help children realize their untapped potential.
“Let us celebrate the power and the community of unity and together we can create an environment where every child can dream, inspire, and achieve their full potential.
The Chief Director of the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council, Alhaji Inusah Abubakar, who was the guest of honour, lamented that despite Ghana being the first country in Africa to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child many years ago, numerous challenges still confront children in the country.
He highlighted that issues such as poverty, conflict, diseases, illegal mining, and child labor persistently hinder children from accessing education and enjoying their rights. He emphasized the necessity for clear policy direction and renewed dedication from relevant institutions and stakeholders to tackle these challenges and pave the way for a brighter future.
“On this day of the African child, we need to advocate for policies and initiatives that support and promote children’s welfare and development. This calls for concerted efforts which must be guided by a shared vision where every child can inspire and achieve their fullest potential.
“Government and civil society organisations will have to continuously work in a coordinated and sustained manner to gain international cooperation and solidarity,” he added.
Mrs. Patricia Anaba, Headmistress of Bolgatanga Girls Senior High School (BOGISS), emphasized that children represent the future of every nation. She stressed the importance of a shared responsibility to support, safeguard, and enable them to thrive and excel in today’s world.
“We must break down the barriers that stand in the way of children, whether it is economic, social, or cultural and to foster a community that uplifts and supports every African child,” she added.
Naba Baba Salifu Atamale Lemyaarum, the Paramount Chief of Bongo Traditional Area, emphasized the importance for education stakeholders to acknowledge the potential of children and collaborate to support their development for sustainable progress.