NCCE Takes Adolescent Health and GBV Awareness Campaign to Xekpa and Goba Beach Communities

Residents of the Xekpa and Goba Beach fishing communities in the Keta Municipality suspended their daily activities to participate in a public education campaign on adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) organized by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE).

The mobile van sensitization exercise formed part of the project, "Empowering Community and Youth for Adolescent Health, Gender Equality, and Preventing Gender-Based Violence through Civic Engagement," being implemented by the NCCE in partnership with UNFPA and funded by Global Affairs Canada.

Using a mobile public address system, the NCCE team reached fishermen, fishmongers, parents, youth, and other residents with messages on gender-based violence, adolescent pregnancy, harmful social norms, and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). The exercise aimed to increase public awareness, promote positive behavioral change, and encourage communities to play an active role in protecting adolescents and preventing all forms of abuse.

The campaign also sought to strengthen community participation in addressing harmful practices, promote gender equality, and encourage boys and men to become advocates for respectful relationships and the prevention of violence against women and girls.

Speaking during the outreach, the Keta Municipal Director of the NCCE, Madam Lina Bensah, together with Assistant Civic Education Officer (ACEO) Madam Agartha Fiakofi, emphasized that gender-based violence remains a serious social challenge with far-reaching consequences for victims, families, and communities. They urged residents to reject all forms of violence, discrimination, and abuse while promoting respect for human dignity, equality, and the protection of fundamental human rights.

The officers underscored the vital role that men and boys play in preventing violence and creating safe and supportive environments for women and girls. They noted that sustainable social change can only be achieved when every member of the community, regardless of age or gender, contributes to promoting peaceful and respectful relationships.

The sensitization also highlighted the importance of protecting adolescents from early and unintended pregnancies. Parents and guardians were encouraged to maintain open communication with their children and provide the guidance and support needed to help them make informed decisions about their health, education, and future.

Residents were further encouraged to challenge harmful social norms that limit the opportunities and development of adolescents, particularly girls. The NCCE stressed that every child deserves a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment in which to thrive and achieve their full potential.

The exercise concluded with a call on community members to report incidents of abuse and violence and to support survivors in accessing appropriate services. The Commission emphasized that protecting vulnerable persons is a collective responsibility and that speaking up against abuse contributes to building safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities.

The mobile van campaign attracted significant public attention, reflecting the growing interest among residents in issues relating to adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of gender-based violence.