With just four years left to meet the global goal of ending child marriages, Ghana has begun a crucial rethink of its national response, as concerns grow that deep-rooted social and economic factors are still putting many girls at risk.
On Saturday, January 24, 2026, the Child Marriage Unit of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, working with UNFPA and UNICEF Ghana, convened a high-level consultative meeting in Accra to review and update the National Strategic Framework (NSF) on Ending Child Marriage.
The one-day meeting took stock of progress made between 2017 and 2025, identified gaps slowing implementation, and gathered insights from practitioners on the frontlines, as Ghana pushes toward achieving SDG target 5.3 by 2030.
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Speaking on behalf of the ministry’s chief director, the Head of the Child Marriage Unit, Saphia Tamimu, said the review had become unavoidable because the drivers of child marriages remain firmly rooted in some communities.
“The National Strategic Framework reflects Ghana’s commitment to protecting the rights, dignity and future of every child,” she said, adding that important gains had been made through stronger laws and policies.
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She pointed to the Affirmative Action Gender Equity Act, 2024 (Act 1121), the Social Protection Act (Act 1148), and the ongoing enforcement of the Children’s Act as major steps that have improved institutional responses to child marriages.
However, Tamimu admitted that these successes have also exposed weaknesses within the system that need urgent attention.
“With only four years left to meet the 2030 target, we must be honest about what is not working and adjust our strategies accordingly,” she noted.
Representatives from UNFPA and UNICEF Ghana emphasised the importance of evidence-based interventions, better coordination among stakeholders, and sustained partnerships.
They explained that Phase III of the UNFPA–UNICEF Global Programme to End Child Marriage is focused on scaling up proven solutions, strengthening national systems, and ensuring that adolescent girls are at the centre of decision-making.
Participants at the event used the platform to share real-life experiences from districts and communities, highlighting priority actions and practical solutions.
Organisers said the consultations are intended to ensure the revised framework reflects present realities, aligns with national development goals, and truly speaks to the lived experiences of girls most vulnerable to child marriages.
NA/AE
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Source:
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