NCCE-Keta Engages Okada Riders on Gender-Based Violence and Adolescent Health

Recognizing the influential role that young men play in shaping attitudes and behaviours within communities, the Keta Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has engaged okada riders at Vui Junction in an interactive sensitization programme on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), adolescent pregnancy, harmful social norms, and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).

The engagement formed part of the project titled “Empowering Community and Youth for Adolescent Health, Gender Equality, and Preventing Gender-Based Violence through Civic Engagement,” which is being implemented by the NCCE in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and funded by Global Affairs Canada. The initiative seeks to promote positive behavioural change, strengthen gender equality, and enhance community participation in preventing Gender-Based Violence.

The programme aimed to increase awareness of adolescent health and SRHR issues while encouraging men and boys to become active partners in advancing gender equality and promoting positive social norms. By targeting okada riders, many of whom are young men, the NCCE sought to engage a key demographic whose actions and attitudes can significantly influence community development and social transformation.

Addressing participants during the engagement, the Municipal Director, Ms. Lina Elinam Bensah, emphasized that Gender-Based Violence remains a major social challenge with far-reaching consequences for victims, families, and communities. She explained the various forms of GBV and highlighted the importance of promoting respect, tolerance, and non-violence in everyday interactions.

Furthermore, Ms. Bensah underscored the critical role that men and boys play in preventing violence and protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls. She encouraged the riders to become agents of positive change by challenging harmful attitudes, stereotypes, and behaviours that perpetuate violence, discrimination, and inequality.

The discussion also focused on adolescent pregnancy and the importance of providing young people with accurate information, guidance, and support to enable them to make informed decisions about their health, education, and future aspirations. Participants were reminded that every child, especially the girl child, deserves a safe, supportive, and enabling environment to realize their full potential.

In addition, the Municipal Director urged parents, guardians, and community members to work collaboratively to address harmful social norms and practices that negatively affect adolescents. She stressed that collective action is necessary to safeguard the well-being of young people and promote healthy communities.

Participants were also encouraged to speak out against abuse and promptly report incidents of violence to the appropriate authorities. According to the facilitators, breaking the culture of silence surrounding abuse is essential for protecting victims, ensuring justice, and preventing future occurrences.

The engagement generated lively discussions, with many of the riders sharing their experiences, concerns, and perspectives on issues affecting young people and families within their communities. Their active participation demonstrated a willingness to support efforts aimed at promoting gender equality and preventing Gender-Based Violence.

The NCCE Keta Municipal Office reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with community groups, youth associations, and other stakeholders to advance adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of Gender-Based Violence. Through sustained civic education and stakeholder collaboration, the Commission continues to contribute to the creation of safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities.