Accra: Young men and boys in Ghana's transport sector have been urged to champion gender equality and help eliminate child marriage and gender-based violence. The call was made at a dialogue on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), including child marriage, organised at the Shiashie Lorry Station in Accra by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, in partnership with the Department of Gender, the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, whose speech was read on her behalf, emphasized that gender equality is essential to national development. She called on men and boys to become advocates for positive social change. Dr Lartey noted that transport operators, who interact daily with thousands of commuters, are well positioned to promote respect, non-violence, and responsible behaviour within their communities.
The Minister urged participants to embrace positive masculinity by rejecting harmful stereotypes, promoting consent, and upholding the rights and dignity of women and girls. She highlighted that every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and realise their potential in a safe and supportive environment. Dr Lartey reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to promoting a society in which women and men, girls and boys enjoy equal rights, opportunities, and responsibilities.
Dr Doris Aglobitse, Gender Specialist at UNFPA, stated that the Fund would continue to support the Government in empowering men and boys to help prevent gender-based violence and protect the rights of women and girls. Leaders of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union pledged to sustain the awareness campaign at lorry stations across the country to promote safer public spaces.