STAR-Ghana Foundation joined the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in a week long virtual celebration of the African Union Day of the Child, peaking it with a Ministerial Briefing on 16th June 2020 at the Ministry of Information Press Centre.

16th June is observed every year in recognition of the children who lost their lives while fighting injustices in Soweto, South Africa in 1976.  This year’s celebration coincides with the 30^th Anniversary of the African Union Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC). The theme for the celebration is ‘Access to Child-friendly Justice in Ghana’.

Stakeholder were unanimous in the view that Ghana’s child justice system needs invigoration to meet the principles and protocols set in the ACRWC, and to safeguard children and protect their rights. The briefing also explored the impact of COVID-19 on children.  

Speaking at the briefing, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Cynthia Morrison said:

“Providing child-friendly justice systems is critical for any country’s growth and development, as for the welfare of its children… we will continue to amend the laws to protect children and improve on the policy environment’’.

 Representing STAR-Ghana Foundation, Safia Musah, Programme Officer noted:

On this occasion, STAR-Ghana wishes all children in Ghana and Africa a very happy commemoration. Every child everywhere must fully enjoy their rights. We shall continue to partner the Ministry through the Department of Children to secure child rights in Ghana. Happy Africa Union Day of the Child!