By Emelia B. Addae, GNA
Asesewa (E/R), Oct. 19, GNA – The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has taken its campaign against gender-based violence to the football field, using a community match at Otrokper to promote adolescent health rights and challenge abuse.
The match, organised in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), formed part of efforts to raise awareness of adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and gender-based violence (GBV).
The activity, funded by Global Affairs Canada, brought together young people, parents and traditional leaders to discuss abuse prevention, gender equality and responsible health decisions through a community sporting event.
Mr Eric K. Yanney, Upper Manya Krobo District Director of the NCCE, said sexual and reproductive health was central to adolescents’ transition into adulthood and their overall health, well-being and personal development.
He said adolescent health was a shared community responsibility and urged young people to reject beliefs that portrayed violence, aggression and controlling behaviour as signs of strength.
Mr Yanney encouraged young men to demonstrate positive masculinity through respect, self-control, responsibility and peaceful communication.
Ms Kathleen Addy, Chairperson of the NCCE, defined gender-based violence as harmful acts directed at individuals or groups because of socially assigned gender differences, roles or inequalities.
She called for greater protection of girls and women against abuse and violence.
On teenage pregnancy, Ms Addy said prevention efforts must involve boys and men alongside girls and women. She stressed the need to educate both sexes on abstinence and responsible sexual behaviour.
Chief Superintendent Benjamin Buxton, Asesewa District Police Commander, described gender-based violence as a serious social problem that undermined the rights and dignity of individuals, families and communities.
He said the abuse included physical and sexual violence, emotional and psychological abuse, economic abuse, child marriage, and other harmful practices. He urged residents not to treat such acts as normal in their families or communities.
Chief Superintendent Buxton disclosed that the Asesewa Police Command had recorded 57 domestic violence cases in 2026, including nine defilement cases, two attempted rape cases and three rape cases.
He urged victims and their families to report abuse to the appropriate authorities and called on community members to support victims without blaming, shaming or discriminating against them.
Ms Jennifer Dugbazah, Midwife and Officer-in-Charge of the Otrokper Health Centre, educated participants on the physical and emotional changes associated with adolescence.
She urged parents and caregivers to pay attention to adolescents’ personal hygiene and menstrual health, while encouraging young people to make responsible decisions to protect themselves against sexually transmitted infections.
Ms Dugbazah also advised adolescents to seek accurate sexual and reproductive health information from trusted adults and qualified health professionals without fear of discrimination or embarrassment.
The match between Otrokper FC and Ochirebentoa FC ended in a penalty shootout after neither side secured a decisive victory during regular play.
Otrokper FC won 5-4 on penalties and received a trophy and medals, while Ochirebentoa FC received medals for finishing second.
The event used football to bring community members together around discussions on gender-based violence, adolescent health rights, and the need to protect victims of abuse.
GNA
Edited by D.I. Laary/Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Emelia B. Addae
Email: [email protected]