Accra:The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has reiterated the need for increased investment in young people to enable their thriving and meaningful contribution to national development.
According to Ghana News Agency, Ms. Adjoa Yenyi, Head of Adolescent and Youth Development at UNFPA, emphasized the social and economic benefits of investing in young people. She highlighted various UNFPA programmes designed to empower youth, including a leadership training initiative in partnership with the National Service Authority, which provides young people with necessary information, skills, and support.
The UNFPA, in collaboration with UNICEF, aims to reach 400,000 vulnerable adolescent girls in Ghana by 2030, focusing on improving reproductive health, education, and access to essential services. This programme, supported by Global Affairs Canada, addresses challenges faced by marginalized adolescents, including rural girls, migrant girls, out-of-school youth, and girls with disabilities.
Dr. Wilfred Ochan, UNFPA Country Representative, acknowledged the complex conversations around culture and social norms involved in their work, asserting that the organization remains committed to respectful community engagement and achieving development outcomes. Mr. Vitus Atonga Atuah, Programme Analyst at UNFPA, stressed the importance of providing accurate information and support systems to young people.
Additionally, the UNFPA collaborates with state institutions to improve skilled birth delivery, family planning use, and maternal health care quality. It also assists in enhancing access to HIV prevention services among youth and supports the national population programme and domestic violence action plan. Dr. Emmily Naphambo, Deputy Country Representative of UNFPA, raised concerns about preventable maternal deaths and emphasized the need for more action to ensure adolescent girls' safety and health.
Furthermore, Dr. Imurana Mohammed from the National Commission for Civic Education urged the media to raise awareness of reproductive health issues. Mrs. Linda Asante Agyei, representing the Media and Communications Advocacy Network (MCAN), commended UNFPA's continuous support since 2002, which aids in advocating for reproductive health and gender equality through professional media practices.