By Enock Akonnor (Managing Editor) enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
Faith-based organisations have been called upon to use their moral authority and influence to help end gender-based violence (GBV), including child marriage, in Ghana.
The call was made at an engagement meeting with faith-based organisations held at the Golden Bean Hotel in Kumasi as part of activities marking the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The meeting was organised by the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
Delivering a speech on behalf of the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council Chief Director, Mr Micheal Owusu Amoako Esq, the RCC emphasised that gender-based violence continues to undermine social stability and slow national development, with women and girls bearing the brunt of its impact.
He noted that while some progress has been made, particularly with a gradual decline in child marriage rates, the practice still affects about one in five girls under the age of 18 in Ghana, with certain districts recording alarmingly high prevalence.
Citing UNFPA data, the speech highlighted the scale of the challenge: 33 per cent of Ghanaian women aged 15–49 have experienced physical violence since the age of 15, while 61 per cent of women who have ever been married or in relationships have faced controlling behaviour from partners.
Additionally, 36 per cent have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual violence from a current or recent partner, and 28 per cent endured such violence within the past year.
“These figures represent only reported cases,” the Chief Director stressed, adding that many victims remain silent due to fear, shame, or lack of support, suggesting that the true magnitude of the problem is far greater.
The engagement underscored the critical role of religious and traditional leaders in shaping societal values and behaviours. Faith leaders, the RCC noted, have a unique responsibility to speak up for the vulnerable and help translate advocacy into concrete community action.
The meeting, chaired by Nana Kuntenasehene, Barima Ogyeabour Amankwaa Adunan II, brought together traditional authorities, religious leaders, representatives from local government, regional directors, UNFPA officials, and members of the media.
Participants were encouraged to engage in open and constructive dialogue on practical strategies to prevent GBV, support survivors, and empower families to protect children from harmful practices such as child marriage.
On behalf of the Ashanti RCC, appreciation was extended to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, UNFPA, and other partners for their continued support in promoting the welfare of women and children.
The engagement ended with a call for sustained collaboration to build safer communities where every woman is protected, every child is valued, and violence is collectively rejected.
Enock Akonnor is an experienced Ghanaian journalist, based in Kumasi and currently serves as the CEO and Managing Editor of www.leakyghana.com.
With a wealth of expertise built over many years in the media industry, he has earned a solid reputation as one of Ghana’s most sought-after journalists.
Contact:
📞 +233 541 921 562
✉️ enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
