The Nabdam Traditional Council, under the leadership of Naa-Pariyoung Kosom Asaga Yelzoya II, has reaffirmed its commitment to ending child marriage and gender-based violence in the district. This follows a national sensitization meeting jointly organized by UNFPA, the Government of Ghana through the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, and other partner agencies.
Addressing his council in the Nabdam Traditional Area, Naa-Pariyoung Yelzoya II described child marriage as a “deep wound in the moral and cultural fabric” of northern communities, emphasizing that the practice has no place in Nabdam tradition. “Child marriage is not part of our heritage; it is a violation of our laws and a betrayal of the values our ancestors stood for,” he declared.
Although Ghana’s national child marriage rate has dropped to 19%, the five regions of the north still recorded an alarming 34%, according to the chief — an imbalance he said calls for stronger local enforcement and community vigilance.
The Traditional Council has therefore resolved to tighten its by-laws to protect girls and women from abuse and early marriage. Community members have been urged to report any suspected cases to the palace or the police for swift action.
In a passionate appeal, Naa-Pariyoung urged parents, opinion leaders, and youth groups to stand together in protecting the rights of children. “When we protect our daughters, we secure our future,” he said. “Let us unite in purpose and in action to end child marriage and gender violence once and for all.”
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Seidu Suleimana Akurugu|Nabdam
