The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to protecting children, supporting vulnerable families, and reducing social inequalities as the country joined the international community to mark the 2026 International Day of Families.
In a statement issued on Friday, May 15, 2026, the Ministry said this year’s celebration is being observed under the theme, “Families, Inequalities and Child Wellbeing.” According to the Ministry, the theme highlights the important role families play in national development and the urgent need to address inequalities affecting children across society.
The Ministry described families as the foundation of every community and the primary source of care, protection, and emotional support for children.
However, it expressed concern over the growing economic and social pressures facing many households, warning that these challenges continue to threaten the wellbeing and future of children in Ghana and across Africa.
According to the statement, poverty, unemployment, domestic violence, child labour, and human trafficking remain major issues affecting families. Limited access to quality healthcare and education has also worsened the difficulties confronting many parents and guardians, especially in vulnerable communities.
“These pressures place a heavy burden on families and reduce their ability to provide the care, love, safety, protection and guidance children need to thrive,” the Ministry stated.
The Ministry stressed that strong and stable families are essential for building a cohesive society and protecting vulnerable groups. It added that every Ghanaian child, regardless of social background, deserves the opportunity to grow up in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment.
According to the statement, government continues to prioritise social protection and child welfare through several targeted programmes and interventions aimed at strengthening families and improving the living conditions of children.
Among the initiatives highlighted were the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) Programme, the School Feeding Programme, and the National Parenting Strategy.
The Ministry explained that these interventions are designed to provide financial support to vulnerable households, improve child nutrition, and promote responsible parenting practices.
The statement also referenced key policy frameworks introduced to advance positive parenting, social inclusion, and equal opportunities for children. These include the Child and Family Welfare Policy, the Justice for Children Policy, the National Child Policy, and the newly launched Early Childhood Care and Development Policy.
In addition, the Ministry announced intensified efforts to tackle gender-based violence and strengthen disability inclusion within communities.
It said measures are also being expanded to reinforce community-based child protection systems and improve digital and social welfare services to ensure vulnerable children are not excluded from essential support programmes.
The Ministry therefore called on all sectors of society to support efforts aimed at building resilient families and safer communities for children.
Parents, caregivers, traditional leaders, religious institutions, civil society organisations, development partners, and community groups were urged to work together to promote child protection and family wellbeing.
The statement concluded with a call for Ghanaians to renew their collective commitment to creating inclusive communities where every child has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
“Together, let us renew our commitment to building stronger homes and a society in which no one is left behind,” the Ministry stated.