By: Jude Tackie
Plan International Ghana and World Vision Ghana have denounced the alleged marriage between a 12-year-old girl and a 63-year-old traditional priest in Nungua, Accra.
The organizations expressed “profound concern” over the reports of this disturbing union, which they assert is a clear violation of Ghana’s laws and international human rights conventions.
“We strongly condemn this repulsive act and assert unequivocally that there is no justification for the marriage, union, or betrothal of a girl child to a man, regardless of cultural traditions or any other pretext,” the statement read. “She is a child, not a bride!”
The groups noted that child marriage is a form of gender-based violence that perpetuates poverty, illiteracy, and inequality, robbing young girls of their childhood, education, and opportunities for a brighter future.
The alleged marriage was reportedly conducted by Nuumo Borketey Laweh XXXIII, a traditional priest who has attempted to defend the union as a “betrothal” rather than a full marriage.
However, Plan International Ghana and World Vision Ghana rejected this argument, stating that there is no acceptable justification for such a practice.
Highlighting the grave violations of the 12-year-old girl’s rights, including her bodily autonomy and personal development, the organizations demanded that the Ghanaian government take immediate action.
This includes enforcing the law to the fullest extent, preventing the parents from supporting the marriage, and ensuring the child’s release to continue her education in a safe environment.
They also called for comprehensive public education campaigns to raise awareness about the harms of harmful traditional practices that prevent girls from realizing their full potential.
“CEFM (child early and forced marriage) has no place in our society and must be eradicated,” the statement concluded. “We stand firm in our commitment to protecting the rights and wellbeing of children and girls.”
The case has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with rights groups and advocates vowing to continue their fight against child marriage and other forms of gender-based violence in Ghana.