By Priscilla Oye Ofori, GNA
Accra, Aug. 4, GNA – Young men and boys in Ghana’s transport sector have been urged to champion gender equality and help eliminate child marriage and gender-based violence.
The call was made at a dialogue on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), including child marriage, organised at the Shiashie Lorry Station in Accra by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, in partnership with the Department of Gender, the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, whose speech was read on her behalf, said gender equality was essential to national development and called on men and boys to become advocates for positive social change.
She said transport operators, who interacted daily with thousands of commuters, were well positioned to promote respect, non-violence and responsible behaviour within their communities.
The Minister urged participants to embrace positive masculinity by rejecting harmful stereotypes, promoting consent and upholding the rights and dignity of women and girls.
She said every child deserved the opportunity to grow, learn and realise his or her potential in a safe and supportive environment.
Dr Lartey reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting a society in which women and men, girls and boys enjoyed equal rights, opportunities and responsibilities.
Dr Doris Aglobitse, Gender Specialist at UNFPA, said the Fund would continue to support the Government in empowering men and boys to help prevent gender-based violence and protect the rights of women and girls.
Leaders of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union pledged to sustain the awareness campaign at lorry stations across the country to promote safer public spaces.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
By Priscilla Oye Ofori