Child marriage remains a significant barrier to girls’ rights, education, health, and future opportunities in Ghana. Although the country has made progress in strengthening its legal and policy framework, girls in many communities continue to face the risk of marriage before the age of 18, particularly in areas affected by poverty, limited educational opportunities, harmful gender norms, and social exclusion.
This was the focus of a recent episode of GTV Women’s Voices, which examined the need for a holistic and coordinated response to accelerate the eradication of child marriage in Ghana. The discussion highlighted progress made through the implementation of the National Strategic Framework on Ending Child Marriage (2017–2026), public education, child protection interventions, social protection programmes, the Free SHS policy, and initiatives supporting adolescent mothers to return to school.
Panelists also discussed persistent challenges, including poverty, adolescent pregnancy, weak enforcement of child protection laws, inadequate social protection coverage, and harmful social norms. The important role of traditional and religious leaders, families, communities, civil society organisations, law enforcement agencies, and young people in addressing these challenges was emphasised.
Drawing on experiences from the Upper West Region, the discussion highlighted the value of community ownership, girls’ empowerment, advocacy, and strategic partnerships in preventing child marriage and protecting vulnerable girls. The programme also underscored the importance of strengthening access to justice and ensuring that girls at risk of or experiencing forced marriage are able to access protection and legal support.
The discussion concluded with a call for sustained government commitment, stronger enforcement of laws, increased investment in prevention and protection services, and coordinated action among stakeholders to create an enabling environment where every girl can remain in school, make informed choices, and reach her full potential.
