U/E: Nabdam Chiefs Unite Against Child Marriage and Gender Violence

The Nabdam Traditional Council in the Nabdam District of the Upper East Region, has renewed its commitment to ending child marriage and gender-based violence in the area.

Led by Naa-Pariyoung Kosom Asaga Yelzoya II, Child marriage is a serious human rights violation in the Commonwealth and impedes the right of girls to have a childhood.

According to him Traditional leaders are the custodians of traditional cultural practices and their commitment to become champions to tackle this harmful traditional practice is a step in the right direction.

Speaking at a council meeting at Nangodi on Monday the Overlords noted that while national rates have declined to 19%, northern Ghana still records about 34%, calling it unacceptable. He outlined the health implications of child marriage and implored his fellow traditional leaders to frown upon the practice.

Naa-Pariyoung Kosom Asaga Yelzoya II, reaffirmed that child marriage is not part of tradition and violates the Children’s Act, warning offenders will face strict sanctions.

The Council pledged to strengthen local by-laws and urged residents to report all abuse cases to the Palace or Police.

“What is good for the girl child is good for the nation.” Naa-Pariyoung concluded.

More children than ever are being married off in Ghana. Child marriage denies girls their rights to education, to health and to lives free from violence.

The continuing quality education of girls must be championed by traditional authorities, as well as the health-related impacts, both the physical and physiological.

Credit: Rexkin Ohene Boateng, Hello Fm Kumasi.