Gomoa east district: Ghanaians Against Child Abuse (GACA) and the Centre for National Culture (CNC) are actively engaging communities in Ghana's Central Region to prevent child marriage and abuse. Through a series of educational outreach programs in the Gomoa East District, including areas like Nyanyano, Gomoa Fetteh, and Fetteh Kakraba, the campaign is set to educate and raise awareness about the dangers of child marriage and abuse. According to Ghana News Agency,, the community outreach is centered on the theme "For Our Bright Future, End Child Marriage Now." The program includes drama performances aimed at addressing critical issues such as drug abuse, child labor, child rights, and sexual abuse. The use of theatre in these performances is designed to help children understand and retain the crucial lessons being imparted. Mr. Ebenezer Kofi Nti, CNC's Acting Central Regional Director, emphasized that cultural practices and economic activities in these communities contribute to the prevalence of child abuse and marriage. He explained the effectiveness of drama in educating children, stating, "We believe children can easily remember these lessons, and through drama, they can identify child abuse when they see the signs." Inspector James Oduro from the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service reinforced the legal perspective during the outreach, reminding the community that child marriage is illegal under Ghanaian law. He highlighted that Section 14 of the Children's Act prohibits child marriage, with penalties including imprisonment or fines. Additionally, he stressed the severe legal consequences for related offenses such as rape and defilement. The outreach program also featured contributions from the Ghana Education Service, Social Welfare, and the Girl Child Education Unit of the Gomoa East Assembly. Each organization addressed various aspects of child welfare, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in protecting children. Madam Faustina Abbam, Head of Girl Child Education in the district, spoke about the need to support and not shame children who are victims of sexual abuse, urging them to report any incidents to trusted adults. Funded by UNICEF, the program brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including community leaders, traditional leaders, teachers, and students, all united in their goal to foster a safer and more informed community.
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