Mr. Osama Makkawi Khogali, the newly appointed UNICEF Ghana Representative, has paid a courtesy visit to the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Lariba Zuweira Abudu.
The purpose of Mr. Khogali’s visit was to introduce himself to the Minister formally and to discuss potential areas of collaboration and partnership.
During his introduction, Mr. Khogali praised Ghana for being a shining example for other nations to follow, as it was the first country in the world to ratify the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Mr. Khogali emphasized UNICEF’s commitment to creating an environment where children can thrive and grow in a violence-free society. He assured that UNICEF is dedicated to ensuring that every child and adolescent, especially those who are marginalized and excluded, receive fair and inclusive opportunities to reach their full potential.
In response, Hon. Lariba Zuweira Abudu reiterated the government’s determination to implement policies to safeguard and advance Ghanaian children’s rights.
She pointed out that this commitment is reflected in the amendment of child-related legislation, revision and finalization of the National Gender Policy (2023-2032), which was developed through consultations with stakeholders.
The Minister also highlighted the Ministry’s social protection interventions, including the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) and the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP).
These initiatives, she said, were designed to support disadvantaged and vulnerable individuals in the country.
Joining Mr. Osama Khogali were Mr. Robert Osei-Tutu, a Program Specialist from UNICEF-GHANA, Madam Hilda Mensah, a Child Protection Specialist from UNICEF-GHANA, and Madam Offeibea Baddoo, responsible for Communication and Advocacy at UNICEF-GHANA.
Notable attendees at the meeting included Deputy Minister, Hon. Francisca Oteng Mensah; Chief Director-Dr. Afisah Zakariah; and Mrs. Florence Ayisi Quartey, the Acting Director for the Department of Children.
The visit underscored the shared commitment between UNICEF and the Ghanaian government to promote and protect the rights and well-being of children in Ghana.