NCCE Takes GBV and Adolescent Health Awareness Campaign to Abor and Anlo-Afiadenyigba Junctions

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Keta Municipal Office, has intensified its public education campaign on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), adolescent pregnancy, harmful social norms, and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) through a mobile van sensitization exercise at the busy junctions of Abor and Anlo-Afiadenyigba.

The outreach targeted Okada riders, traders, commuters, and residents with key messages aimed at promoting gender equality and protecting adolescents from violence and abuse. The exercise forms part of the project, “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) with financial support from Global Affairs Canada.

As motorcycles queued to pick up passengers and traders attended to customers, the mobile van broadcast educational messages that drew the attention of people at the bustling transport and commercial hubs. The exercise provided an opportunity for members of the public to reflect on their shared responsibility in safeguarding adolescents and promoting healthy communities.

Addressing participants, the Keta Municipal Director of the NCCE, Madam Lina Bensah, said the initiative seeks to encourage positive behavioral change on adolescent health, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, and the prevention of gender-based violence. She noted that sustainable progress can only be achieved when communities unite to challenge harmful social norms and support the healthy development of young people.

Assistant Civic Education Officer, Madam Agartha Fiakofi, described gender-based violence as a serious violation of human rights with lasting effects on victims, families, and society. She urged residents to promote peaceful relationships founded on mutual respect and dignity.

She further appealed to men and boys, particularly the young Okada riders who participated in the exercise, to become advocates for positive behavior by rejecting violence, promoting gender equality, and supporting efforts to protect women and girls from abuse. She also encouraged parents and guardians to create safe spaces where adolescents can seek guidance on issues affecting their health, education, and future.

The NCCE officers reminded participants that every child, especially the girl child, deserves a safe and supportive environment to grow, pursue education, and achieve their full potential. They emphasized the collective responsibility of community members to report abuse and challenge harmful practices that place adolescents at risk.

The sensitization campaign attracted considerable interest from commuters, traders, transport operators, and residents, many of whom welcomed the initiative and interacted with the educational messages. The NCCE says it remains committed to strengthening public awareness through community-based outreach and mobilizing citizens to build communities where adolescents can live free from violence, discrimination, and harmful practices.