Naana Adiki Manyeyo Adi I leads campaign against child marriage in Ada

Naana Adiki Manyeyo Adi I, Queen of the Royal Adibiawe and President of the Ada Queen Mothers’ Consortium, spearheaded a major campaign in Kasseh, Ada East District, to combat child marriage and advocate for girls' rights. The event, held in commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, brought together traditional leaders, community members, and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) to address the systemic challenges hindering the progress of young girls in the region.

Madam Faustina Blewusi, representing the NCCE, described child marriage as a profound moral and human rights violation that severely impacts the development of young girls. She identified poverty and persistent cultural misconceptions as the primary drivers of the practice in the district. Blewusi urged local stakeholders to intensify their surveillance and community engagement efforts to eliminate these barriers, stressing that safeguarding the future of girls requires a collective commitment from all sectors of society.

Supporting this call, Naana Adiki Manyeyo Adi I emphasized that the potential of young girls extends far beyond early domesticity or marriage. She appealed directly to parents to prioritize schooling, even when faced with significant financial hardships, and highlighted the importance of diligent parental supervision. To provide practical support during the campaign, sanitary pads and snacks were distributed to participants, underscoring a commitment to addressing the basic needs that often keep girls out of the classroom.

The initiative reflects a growing collaborative effort between traditional authorities and state institutions to address gender-based challenges in the Ada East District. By focusing on education as the primary tool for empowerment, organizers aim to dismantle the cycle of child marriage and ensure that every girl in the district has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to her community.