Introduction

Child marriage remains a pressing issue in Ghana, despite significant strides in policy reforms and community-based interventions. The Child Marriage Unit of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, in partnership with UNFPA Ghana and UNICEF Ghana, recently convened a two-day National Stakeholders’ Meeting to address this challenge. Held under the theme “Achieving Gender Equality, Empowering Futures: Accelerating Action to End Child Marriage,” the assembly brought together key partners to review progress, assess interventions, and strategize for the future.

This article delves into the key discussions, achievements, and actionable strategies shared during the meeting, emphasizing the collective effort required to eradicate child marriage in Ghana.

Key Points from the National Stakeholders’ Meeting

• Collaborative Efforts: The meeting highlighted the importance of partnerships among government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations like UNFPA and UNICEF.
• Progress Review: Stakeholders assessed the impact of ongoing interventions and capital investments aimed at ending child marriage.
• New M&E Plan: The launch of the Operational Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Plan for 2025–2026 was a major highlight, setting baselines and targets for future efforts.
• Strategic Framework: Discussions began on developing a National Strategic Framework on Ending Child Marriage (2027), ensuring stakeholder input.
• Challenges Identified: Poverty, harmful cultural norms, and limited access to education were cited as persistent barriers.

Background: Child Marriage in Ghana

The Scope of the Problem

Child marriage, defined as any formal or informal union where one or both parties are under 18 years of age, remains a critical issue in Ghana. According to UNICEF, approximately 19% of girls in Ghana are married before their 18th birthday, with higher rates in rural and impoverished communities. This practice not only violates human rights but also perpetuates cycles of poverty and gender inequality.

Legal and Policy Framework

Ghana has made significant legal progress in addressing child marriage. The Children’s Act of 1998 (Act 560) sets the legal age of marriage at 18, aligning with international standards. Additionally, the Domestic Violence Act (2007) and the Criminal Offences Act (1960) provide further protections. However, enforcement remains inconsistent, particularly in regions where traditional practices hold strong influence.

Role of International Partners

Organizations like UNFPA Ghana and UNICEF Ghana have been instrumental in supporting Ghana’s efforts. Their initiatives include community engagement programs, educational campaigns, and advocacy for policy reforms. These partnerships are crucial for amplifying the impact of national strategies.

Analysis: Progress and Persistent Challenges

Achievements in Policy and Implementation

The National Stakeholders’ Meeting underscored several achievements:

• Policy Reforms: Ghana’s legal framework has been strengthened to prohibit child marriage, with clearer penalties for offenders.
• Community Interventions: Programs like the GTA Roadmap have increased awareness and provided support to at-risk girls.
• Educational Access: Initiatives to improve girls’ access to education have shown promise in reducing early marriages.

Ongoing Challenges

Despite these advancements, critical challenges persist:

• Poverty: Economic hardship drives families to marry off daughters early, viewing it as a means of financial relief.
• Cultural Norms: Deep-rooted traditions and societal expectations continue to normalize child marriage in some communities.
• Limited Enforcement: Weak implementation of laws and lack of resources hinder progress in rural areas.

Data and Monitoring

The introduction of the Operational M&E Plan for 2025–2026 marks a significant step in tracking progress. This plan includes agreed baselines and targets, ensuring that interventions are data-driven and measurable. Regular monitoring will help identify gaps and adjust strategies accordingly.

Practical Advice: Strategies to End Child Marriage

Strengthening Legal Enforcement

To enhance the effectiveness of existing laws:

• Increase training for law enforcement and judicial officers on child marriage laws.
• Establish community-based reporting mechanisms to encourage whistleblowing.
• Ensure swift prosecution of offenders to deter future violations.

Community Engagement and Education

Engaging communities is essential for sustainable change:

• Conduct awareness campaigns involving local leaders, parents, and youth.
• Promote girls’ education through scholarships and school retention programs.
• Support economic empowerment initiatives for families to reduce financial pressures.

Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration

No single entity can end child marriage alone. Effective collaboration includes:

• Government Agencies: Lead policy implementation and resource allocation.
• NGOs and Civil Society: Provide grassroots support and advocacy.
• International Partners: Offer funding, expertise, and global best practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the legal age for marriage in Ghana?

The legal age for marriage in Ghana is 18 years, as stipulated in the Children’s Act of 1998 (Act 560).

Why does child marriage persist despite legal prohibitions?

Child marriage persists due to poverty, cultural norms, and weak enforcement of laws, particularly in rural areas where traditional practices are deeply entrenched.

What role do UNFPA and UNICEF play in ending child marriage in Ghana?

UNFPA and UNICEF provide technical support, funding, and advocacy to strengthen Ghana’s efforts. They collaborate with the government and local organizations to implement community-based interventions and policy reforms.

How can communities contribute to ending child marriage?

Communities can contribute by raising awareness, supporting girls’ education, and reporting cases of child marriage to authorities. Engaging local leaders and parents is crucial for changing societal attitudes.

What is the National Strategic Framework on Ending Child Marriage (2027)?

The National Strategic Framework (2027) is a forthcoming plan to guide Ghana’s efforts in eradicating child marriage. It will be developed in consultation with stakeholders to ensure comprehensive and sustainable strategies.

Conclusion

The National Stakeholders’ Meeting on Ending Child Marriage in Ghana underscored both the progress made and the challenges ahead. While legal reforms and community interventions have yielded positive results, poverty, cultural norms, and enforcement gaps continue to hinder efforts. The launch of the Operational M&E Plan for 2025–2026 and the development of the National Strategic Framework (2027) signal a commitment to data-driven and collaborative solutions.

Ending child marriage requires sustained multi-stakeholder collaboration, including government agencies, NGOs, international partners, and communities. By prioritizing education, legal enforcement, and economic empowerment, Ghana can accelerate its journey toward a future where every child grows in safety, dignity, and opportunity.