Donatus Akamugri Atanga, the Upper East Regional Minister-Designate, has vowed to work closely with stakeholders to address the alarming prevalence of child marriage in the region.
Child marriage remains a critical issue in the Upper East Region, with numerous children under the legal marriage age of 18 being forced into unions. Speaking before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on January 27, Mr. Atanga expressed grave concern about the secretive nature of these practices, noting that many perpetrators operate covertly to evade detection.
In his remarks, he emphasized the need for collective action and pledged to spearhead community sensitization programmes to educate residents about the dangers and legal ramifications of child marriage.
“The fight against child marriage requires a collective effort, and I am committed to working with all stakeholders to bring this practice to an end,” Mr. Atanga stated.
He outlined plans to raise awareness at the grassroots level, focusing on the harmful impact of child marriage on children’s rights, education, and overall well-being.
“If I become the regional minister, I will prioritize community sensitization on why child marriage is not only harmful but also constitutionally prohibited. I will embark on comprehensive educational campaigns to protect our children and ensure their rights are upheld,” he added.
Mr. Atanga’s commitment signals a significant step toward addressing a deeply rooted issue and safeguarding the future of children in the region.