Nana Esuon Abonyi Kwaata II, the Asihene of the Gomoa Ajumako Traditional Area, has disclosed that the Traditional Council is proposing new bye-laws to curb irresponsible parenting, with a focus on absentee or neglectful fathers.

The Asihene, who is also the Chief of Gomoa Brofoyedur, said the initiative aims to bring relief to children who have been abandoned or neglected by their biological fathers.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) during this year’s Father’s Day celebration at Brofoyedur in the Gomoa Central District, he said the council had previously enacted several bye-laws for the welfare of children but would now intensify efforts to hold fathers accountable.

“Many fathers have become irresponsible to the extent of neglecting their own children,” he said. “Some leave home each morning without providing any financial support, leaving the entire burden on the mothers.”

He expressed concern about the growing trend of paternal neglect, especially in urban areas, where fathers deliberately abandon their responsibilities, forcing mothers to single-handedly cater for their children’s clothing, education, nutrition, and shelter.

Nana Kwaata said the Brofoyedurman Council has instituted an annual stakeholders’ forum where chiefs, students, and parents gather to discuss issues affecting child welfare.

“The forum provides a platform for students and especially mothers to raise concerns on topics such as education, housing, and general wellbeing,” he added.

The Chief appealed to the media to use Father’s Day as an opportunity to educate the public—especially neglectful fathers—on their responsibilities, to ensure children are properly cared for and prepared to become responsible future leaders.

He also urged traditional councils to intensify awareness campaigns and enact bye-laws that will deter negligent fatherhood in their communities.

Nana Kwaata advised prospective fathers to plan their families wisely to avoid unnecessary hardship and emotional trauma, particularly for mothers.