Authorities in Northern Ghana are taking steps to address critical gaps in child protection systems exposed by recent crises, as stakeholders gather to develop region-specific emergency response plans.
The initiative, held in Bolgatanga and supported by UNICEF, focuses on translating Ghana’s national Child Protection in Emergencies framework into practical strategies tailored for the Northern and North East Regions.
Addressing Lessons from Recent Crises
Recent events—including floods, prolonged dry spells, communal conflicts, and an influx of displaced persons from the Sahel—have revealed weaknesses in how emergencies are managed, particularly for vulnerable groups. Children, stakeholders say, have been among the hardest hit.
Iddrisu Sunday, Acting Northern Regional Director of the Department of Children, noted that emergencies often expose children to heightened risks such as abuse, neglect, exploitation, and disruptions in education.
“These situations demand stronger preparedness systems and coordinated responses that place children at the centre,” he said.
From National Policy to Local Action
Although Ghana developed a national contingency plan in 2025, officials say its effectiveness depends on how well it is adapted to local realities. The ongoing workshop aims to produce actionable regional plans that align with existing disaster management systems while addressing specific risks in each region.
Participants—including representatives from Regional Coordinating Councils, civil society organisations, and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection—are working to define clear roles, improve coordination, and strengthen response mechanisms at the district level.
Strengthening Collaboration and Preparedness
Stakeholders emphasised that protecting children during emergencies requires collaboration across multiple sectors, including disaster management, social welfare, and local governance. The new plans are expected to enhance coordination and improve rapid response capabilities when crises occur.
Once completed, the contingency plans will serve as practical guides for managing emergencies, reducing risks, and improving outcomes for children across the two regions.
Participants expressed confidence that the initiative would significantly strengthen resilience and ensure that children’s safety and wellbeing are prioritised in future emergency responses.
