Bolgatanga: Stakeholders in child welfare, education, and health have called for renewed commitment and stronger partnerships to create an enabling environment where every child can grow, learn, and thrive. The call was made during the commemoration of the 2026 Day of the African Child in Bolgatanga, held under the theme: 'Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa.'
According to Ghana News Agency, the event was organized by the Department of Children with support from ActionAid Ghana, a youth-focused non-governmental organization, and brought together children from 10 schools along with actors in the child protection and welfare sector. Mrs. Georgina Aberese-Ako, the Acting Upper East Regional Director of the Department of Children, expressed concern about increasing incidents of child abuse, including sexual abuse in schools, and called on all stakeholders to contribute to creating safe and protective environments for children.
Mrs. Aberese-Ako reminded the public that the Day of the African Child commemorated the courage of children in Soweto, South Africa, who lost their lives in 1976 while demanding quality education. She emphasized that the event offers an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on their collective responsibility towards children and recommit themselves to promoting their well-being.
Ms. Dora Kulariba, the Upper East Regional Adolescent Focal Person of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), highlighted the importance of good hygiene practices in preventing infections among children and adolescents. She encouraged young people to seek healthcare whenever they noticed unusual changes in their bodies and urged both boys and girls to pay attention to personal hygiene.
Ms. Rita Abamah, the Upper East Regional Girl Child Education Officer of the Ghana Education Service (GES), pointed out that girls were often disproportionately affected by inadequate water and sanitation facilities, especially in schools. She called for gender-responsive sanitation facilities to ensure safety, privacy, and dignity for all learners.
Ms. Yvonne Wonchua, the Assistant Director at the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council, encouraged pupils to maintain discipline, study hard, and take care of their school property. Meanwhile, Mr. Yakubu Akuka, Upper East Regional Programmes Manager of ActionAid Ghana, urged stakeholders to adopt positive disciplinary approaches that combined accountability with guidance, mentorship, and support rather than relying solely on punitive measures.
The Day of the African Child is commemorated annually on June 16 across Africa to honor the memory of the Soweto children and advocate for the promotion and protection of children's rights.