MoGCSP Intensifies Campaign Against Child Marriage and Teenage Pregnancy Through Community Sensitisation

Edited by: Solomon Kwabena Nana-Ansah – Paaps –

The Child Marriage Unit of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has intensified its efforts to combat child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and adolescent cohabitation through a community sensitisation programme held at the Nkafoa Atta Mills Community Centre in the Central Region.

The engagement brought together traditional and religious leaders, parents, adolescents, community members, and other key stakeholders to raise awareness about the harmful effects of these practices and encourage collective action to protect the rights and well-being of children and young people.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, the Head of the Child Marriage Unit, Madam Saphia Tamimu, stressed the importance of a united national response to address the persistent challenges of child marriage and teenage pregnancy.

She acknowledged that while Ghana has made significant progress in reducing child marriage, many girls remain vulnerable. According to her, early marriage and teenage pregnancy continue to interrupt the education of many adolescents while exposing them to serious social, economic, and health risks.

Madam Tamimu emphasised that education remains one of the most effective tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and vulnerability. She therefore called on parents, traditional and religious leaders, teachers, and community members to promote positive social norms that protect children and empower adolescents to make informed decisions about their future.

Facilitated by officers from the Child Marriage Unit, community health personnel, educators, and Social Welfare Officers, the sensitisation focused on the legal, social, and health implications of child marriage and teenage pregnancy. Participants also discussed sexual and reproductive health and rights, the importance of keeping children—especially girls—in school, and strategies for strengthening community-based child protection mechanisms.

The programme forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to creating safer, healthier, and more supportive communities while accelerating efforts to eliminate child marriage and other harmful practices, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.