Kumasi, 24th-25th August 2022 – Splendor Hotel in Santasi, Kumasi, served as the venue for a significant stakeholders workshop aimed at engaging religious leaders, traditional leaders, and key government and non-governmental organizations in discussions on their roles and contributions to child and family welfare. The Department of Children, in collaboration with UNICEF, organized the two-day workshop to foster collaboration and empower these influential figures to champion child protection and family well-being.
The workshop brought together a diverse range of participants, including religious leaders, traditional leaders, representatives from the Department of Community Development, the Department of Social Welfare, the Department of Children, and various NGOs actively working in the field of child and family welfare.
Throughout the two days, the discussions revolved around exploring the significant roles that religious and traditional leaders play in promoting child and family welfare. Participants delved into topics such as fostering safe and inclusive communities, preventing child abuse and exploitation, and supporting families in need. The workshop aimed to equip the participants with the necessary knowledge, tools, and resources to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.
The event emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between religious and traditional leaders, government agencies, and NGOs to address the multifaceted challenges faced by children and families. Participants engaged in thought-provoking discussions, sharing their experiences and insights on how they can actively contribute to the well-being and protection of children within their respective communities.
The workshop also highlighted the significance of leveraging the influence and reach of religious and traditional institutions to raise awareness, promote positive values, and advocate for child rights. Participants explored strategies for integrating child protection principles into their teachings, sermons, and community initiatives, aiming to create an environment where children are nurtured, respected, and protected.
Additionally, the workshop provided an opportunity for networking and collaboration among participants. By bringing together stakeholders from different sectors, the Department of Children and UNICEF sought to foster strong partnerships and exchange best practices in the field of child and family welfare. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive and holistic response to the needs of children and families in the community.
As the stakeholders workshop at Splendor Hotel concluded, participants expressed their commitment to actively contribute to child and family welfare within their respective spheres of influence. They acknowledged the importance of their roles as advocates, protectors, and mentors for children and committed to leveraging their positions to promote positive change.
The Department of Children and UNICEF commended the participants for their dedication and enthusiasm in actively engaging in the discussions. They stressed the significance of ongoing collaboration and urged all stakeholders to continue working together to create a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for children and families.
The stakeholders workshop at Splendor Hotel served as a platform for collective action, empowering religious and traditional leaders to play a pivotal role in safeguarding child rights and promoting the overall well-being of families. The event highlighted the immense potential for positive impact when different stakeholders join forces to address child and family welfare issues.
Moving forward, the Department of Children and UNICEF pledged their continued support to religious and traditional leaders, providing them with the necessary guidance, resources, and training to effectively address child and family welfare challenges. They expressed their confidence in the power of collaborative efforts to create a brighter future for children and families in Kumasi and beyond.
Through the collective commitment of religious and traditional leaders, government agencies, and NGOs, the workshop set a precedent for sustained collaboration, advocacy, and action to protect and nurture the well-being of children and families within the community.