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To commemorate the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), MTN Ghana has announced a number of initiatives in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
The goal of this global campaign, which runs from November 25 to December 10, 2024, is to increase awareness and take action to eradicate gender-based violence in all of its manifestations. The organizations are concentrating on raising awareness of GBV during this time, offering assistance and resources, advocating for gender equality, and spreading messages about the effects of GBV on victims.
To raise public awareness of GBV’s causes, effects, and prevention, the partners are making advantage of the vast transportation network.
The Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Dakoa Newman, highlighted the need of addressing gender-based violence in her keynote presentation. She noted that 38.2% of teenage girls in Ghana have experienced sexual abuse, and 27.7% of women have experienced domestic violence. She stated that in order to eradicate gender-based violence in Ghana, immediate group action is required.
Mr. Charles Abani, the UN Resident Coordinator, spoke at the campaign’s debut and stated, “this is an initiative that seeks to harness the power and reach of Ghana’s public transport network to create awareness and foster action against GBV. Public transport in Ghana plays a vital role in the daily lives of millions of citizens. It is a space where people come together, regardless of their background, to travel for work, school, social activities, and more. This makes it a prime opportunity for dialogue and education on critical social issues such as GBV”.
Speaking on the campaign, Robert Kuzoe, Senior Manager for MTN Ghana Foundation, emphasized the company’s commitment to collaborating with partners to end GBV. He stated, “Gender-based violence is not inevitable; it is preventable. We have a responsibility to create a world where everyone, regardless of gender, can live free from fear and violence. Ending GBV is not just about protecting victims; it is about promoting human rights, equality, and a future where everyone can thrive.”
Dravid Wilfred Ochan, UNFPA Country Representative, called on Ghanaians to share their stories, experiences, and ideas for creating a safer and GBV-free transport sector.
He called for more action from policymakers, transport operators, and community leaders against GBV.
“I invite everyone of you to join us in this vital mission to raise awareness and mobilize action against GBV by using the hashtag – #JoinTheBusStopTheViolence. Let us share our stories, experiences, and ideas for creating a safer and GBV-free transport sector.” He emphasized.
In his welcome speech, GPRTU General Secretary Mr. Godfred Abugiri said he was thrilled about the collaboration and reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to combating gender-based violence in Ghana.
UNFPA, MTN Ghana, and GPRTU are committed to establishing a society free from discrimination, fear, and violence because they recognize that gender-based violence compromises people’s basic rights and dignity.
This program demonstrates MTN’s dedication to advancing equality, safety, and respect for every community member.
In order to empower people, communities, and organizations to question damaging norms, report abuse, and assist survivors, the three groups hope that this campaign will spur collective action.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
