NCCE Keta Enlists Okada Riders at Anlo Afiadenyigba Junction in Fight Against GBV and Protection of Adolescent Health

In a targeted effort to promote positive social change, the Keta Municipal Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has engaged commercial motorcycle riders, popularly known as okada riders, at the busy Anlo Afiadenyigba Junction on issues affecting adolescent health, gender equality, and community safety.

The sensitization, held on June 25, 2026, focused on the prevention of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), reduction of adolescent pregnancy, elimination of harmful social norms, and promotion of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).

The activity formed part of the project, “Empowering Community and Youth for Adolescent Health, Gender Equality, and Preventing Gender-Based Violence through Civic Engagement.” The initiative is being implemented by the NCCE in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), with funding support from Global Affairs Canada.

Recognizing okada riders as influential community actors who interact daily with different groups of people, the NCCE identified them as important allies in promoting responsible behaviour, protecting adolescents and reshaping attitudes that contribute to abuse and discrimination.

The engagement sought to promote positive behavioural change on adolescent health, SRHR, and GBV prevention. It also aimed to encourage men and boys to become active partners in advancing gender equality, challenging harmful practices and supporting safer communities.

Addressing the riders, the Keta Municipal Director of the NCCE, Madam Lina Elinam Bensah, described GBV as a serious social problem that harms individuals, weakens families and slows community development. She urged the riders to use their influence responsibly and help protect vulnerable persons, especially young girls, within the community.

Madam Bensah also reminded participants of the importance of parental guidance and community supervision in safeguarding adolescents. She cautioned against the culture of silence and emphasized that reporting abuse is a collective responsibility that can save lives and prevent further harm.

Participants were encouraged to speak up against violence, reject harmful social norms and support efforts aimed at promoting respectful relationships, healthy families and safer environments for young people.

The Okada riders expressed appreciation to the NCCE and its partners for the education. They acknowledged that adolescent health, community safety and the prevention of GBV require collective vigilance and active participation from all members of society.

Through the engagement, the NCCE and its partners reinforced the need for grassroots involvement in protecting adolescents and building safer communities across Anlo Afiadenyigba and the wider Keta Municipality.