Ghana has marked the 2026 Children’s Day with a renewed call for children to be given safe spaces to speak out against abuse and actively participate in decisions that affect their lives.

The celebration, organised by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection through the Department of Children, was held at the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council premises.

It was on the theme: “Amplifying Children’s Voices on Abuse in Ghana: Promoting Child Protection, Participation, and Advocacy.”

Gender, Children and Social Protection Minister, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, called on parents, teachers, religious and community leaders, the media and child protection institutions to work together to create environments where children could speak freely without fear.

In a speech read on her behalf by the Acting Director of the Department of Children, Sefah Alexander Boadu, Dr Lartey stressed that children’s concerns must be taken seriously and reflected in policies and programmes.

“For too long, adults have spoken about children, made decisions for children and designed programmes for children. But we must now ask: Where are the children at the table?” she said.

She explained that child participation in decision-making was not a privilege granted by adults but a fundamental right that required creating opportunities for children to express their views and ensuring those views influenced decisions.

Dr Lartey said the Children’s Voices Sessions organised across the country had provided safe platforms for children to share their experiences and recommendations.

“Our task is to ensure those voices contribute to stronger policies and programmes,” she said.

The Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of age, background or circumstances, receives the protection and dignity they deserve.

“Every child is entitled to safety, dignity and protection,” she stressed.

She further described child protection as both a moral responsibility and a national priority, urging all sections of society to play their part.

“The value of a child cannot be measured in cedis and pesewas. Every child protected today is a future strengthened tomorrow. Child protection is therefore not merely a policy issue; it is a moral responsibility and a national priority,” she stated.

Addressing children directly, Dr Lartey encouraged those experiencing abuse or unsafe situations to speak to trusted adults and persist in seeking help.

“My dear children, we see you, we hear you, and your voice matters. If something hurts you or makes you feel unsafe, speak to a trusted adult. And if you are not heard the first time, do not give up,” she said.

Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Ocloo, also called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to protect children and create communities where they could grow and express themselves freely.

Her speech was read on her behalf by the Chief Director of the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, Rev. Harry Nii Kwatei Owoo.

Madam Ocloo urged traditional and religious leaders to use their influence to promote child protection, while calling on law enforcement agencies, social workers, health professionals and civil society organisations to strengthen their collaboration.

“Let us remember that every child we protect today is a future teacher, doctor, lawyer, engineer, farmer, entrepreneur, leader, parent and a nation-builder. When we protect a child, we protect the future of Ghana,” she stated.

She warned that silencing or neglecting children could have consequences for the country’s future.

“When we silence a child, we silence a part of our future; when we allow a child to suffer, we weaken the very foundation upon which our nation stands,” she said.

The speakers called on all stakeholders to move beyond words and demonstrate their commitment to child protection through concrete action.