Community Development Alliance - Ghana

Today (03-05-26) at Sombisi, the voices of mothers took center stage during a community engagement session using the Circle of Support Child Protection tool.

Through the interactive activity, participants reflected deeply on parental and community responsibility in raising children.

Mothers openly expressed concern about the low involvement of fathers in child upbringing, noting that the poor turnout of men at the meeting highlighted a worrying trend. While this situation has often been accepted as the norm, the session sparked a renewed awareness of the importance of shared responsibility.

In a strong show of commitment, the women pledged to promote unity in parenting efforts.

They specifically resolved to put an end to verbal abuse directed at teachers and Child Protection Committee members who work to guide and correct children. Instead, they emphasized the need for a united front to safeguard the well-being and future of every child in the community.

The session highlighted the critical role of unity within families and the wider community in ensuring children are well guided, protected, and cared for.

Through interactive discussions, community members reflected on how collective responsibility shapes the future of their children.

Participants openly shared concerns about ongoing disunity and petty disputes among family members.

Some noted that certain parents resist guidance from extended family members, while others who feel alienated withdraw their support for children’s welfare.

According to them, these divisions negatively impact children’s wellbeing and development.

Despite these challenges, the community expressed strong optimism that today’s engagement will strengthen family bonds and community cohesion—ultimately creating a more supportive environment for raising responsible and thriving children.