By Albert Futukpor, GNA
Walewale (NE/R), Oct 03, GNA – The West Mamprusi Municipal Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has organised a community football match to promote adolescent reproductive health, gender equality and the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV) in the areas.
The fun game, featuring Tinguri United and Gbimsi Stars at Walewale, formed part of the “Empowering Communities and Youth for the Promotion of Adolescent Reproductive Health, Gender Equality and Prevention of Gender-Based Violence through Civic Engagement” initiative.
The initiative is sponsored by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by the United Nations Population Fund under the Adolescent Girls’ Programme.
It seeks to improve knowledge of adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights especially amongst girls and boys while promoting positive attitudes and behaviours to prevent GBV and harmful social norms.
It also seeks to increase community awareness of adolescent reproductive health through innovative, community-based civic education approaches including fun games as well as strengthen the involvement of men and boys as advocates for gender equality and the protection of adolescent girls.
Mr Imoro Issahaku Thomas, West Mamprusi Municipal Director of NCCE, before the commencement of the match, urged the two teams to become advocates for the rights and protection of women and young girls.
He explained the objectives of the initiative to the players and spectators emphasising the importance of using community engagement activities to promote awareness and behavioural change on issues affecting adolescents and women.
Mr Kweku Ayambire from the West Mamprusi Municipal Health Directorate, who was a resource person, educated participants on family planning methods, dispelled some myths surrounding family planning and encouraged adolescents to access adolescent-friendly healthcare services.
Mr Yahaya Fuseini, who represented the Municipal Chief Imam’s Office, also spoke on gender equality and the prevention of GBV.
He advised couples to understand and study each other to help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts in their homes.
The match was witnessed by Mr Albert Sandow, who represented the Paramount Chief of the Wungu Traditional Area as well as a representative of the Chief of Walewale.
At the end of the encounter, Tinguri United defeated Gbimsi Stars 3-1 to lift the trophy.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Writer’s Email: [email protected]