News
1st Lady, others marks Father’s Day
Ghana on Sunday joined the rest of the world to mark Father’s Day in celebration of their paternal bonds, leadership and outstanding roles they have played in communities over the years.
The day observed on the third Sunday of June globally and usually characterised with giving of cards, gifts, dining outs and other forms of appreciation could not happen as expected this year due to the outbreak of the coronavirus.
Though restrictions have been eased to allow for social gathering, some Ghanaians decided to observe the day by sharing their experiences and sending well wishes to their fathers through radio platforms, television programmes and social media platforms.
The new normal would surely offer many fathers some smiles and joy that alas their toils and sacrifices are being appreciated by family, community and country.
Additionally, online shops, community gift shops and some malls, created special packages and displayed gifts for potential customers to celebrate their fathers.
First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo in a remark to commemorate the day, wished all fathers including her husband a happy Father’s Day.
“Happy Father’s Day with love to all our gallant heroes out there especially my dear Nana Akufo-Addo. Much of what fathers do go unnoticed and without praise but yet they still continue to act responsibly. May you continue to be a shining example for your children to follow,” she tweeted.
The Second Lady, Samira Bawumia in a tweet celebrated his husband and thanked him for his support towards the family.
“Happy Father’s Day to my dear husband, Dr Mahamadu Bawumia. May Allah bless you for your continuous love and guidance for our family and the many people who look up to you.”
In separate interviews, some members of the public praised their fathers and other “father figures” in their life for contributing to their success.
Mr Alfred Amanor, a pastor with the Abundant Life Worship Centre said “Fatherhood is a very important and serious responsibility, requiring a lot of physical, material and emotional investments in the family, community and the nation. Many of us strive to do our best to be able to care for our children”.
“My father juggled between many trades when my mum left him to raise me and three other siblings. I am now a lover of human beings who has no option than to put people first, because he taught me never to let down people who depend on me.
For Maame Nyarkoa, her heart was with all men who have no children of their own. “We count as well as celebrate you for the immense role you play in society’s development. Keep it up,” she stated.
Source: Ghanaian Times
News
Invest in the welfare of children – UNICEF
The Country Representative for United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in Ghana, Mr. Osama Makkawi Khogali, has urged the government and other stakeholders to invest more in the welfare of children.
He explained that Africa was home to a growing number of children, and by the year 2050, four out of every 10 children in the world will live in Africa.
This, he said, was a major reason why more investments are needed in children’s education, health, nutrition, safety, digital access, and job training.
Mr Khogali said this in a statement copied to The Spectator in Accra on Monday June 16 to commemorate the Day of the African Child.
Every year on June 16, the Day of the African Child is celebrated to remember the brave children of the 1976 Soweto Uprising in South Africa. These children stood up against unfair education and fought for their rights. Today, the day reminds everyone to stand up for the rights and welfare of African children.
Mr. Khogali said, “we must act now so that children would not only survive but grow and succeed. Africa’s future is global, and it begins with the children of today.”
The Country Representative for UNICEF said, in Ghana, children make up about 45 per cent of the country’s population, indicating that the future of Ghana depends heavily on how well children were supported and protected today.
He therefore called on governments, communities, families, and individuals to work together and make sure every child has access to good education, health care, safety, and opportunities.
“Helping children now is the smartest way to build a strong and successful country,” he added.
UNICEF is the world’s leading children’s organisation. It works in over 190 countries to protect children’s rights and ensure that every child has the chance to live, grow, and reach their full potential.
By Esinam Jemima Kuatsinu
News
First Lady, Lordina Mahama address 7th Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit in Dubai
The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana on Wednesday, June 18, addressed the prestigious 7th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Summit in Dubai.
The programme held at Hilton Hotel was attended by First Ladies from about 15 African and Asian countries.
The First Lady shared insights on strengthening healthcare systems, empowering women, and celebrating the impactful partnership between Ghana and the Merck Foundation over the past 13 years.
Mrs Mahama also underscored the critical role of First Ladies as Ambassadors for the “More Than a Mother” campaign, working to break the stigma around infertility and promote gender equality.
At the Committee Meeting held on Thursday, June 19, Mrs.Lordina Mahama through her presentation showed video documentary of her varied projects aimed at impacting lives.
The documentary showcased her extensive works in Education, health and other sectors of the country.
This received applauds and commendation from her colleague First Ladies and leadership of Merck Foundation.
Expressing gratitude to the Merck Foundation, she reiterated her and the Lordina Foundation’s commitment to strengthening collaboration for enhanced initiatives in health, education, and combating social stigma across Ghana.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme, Dubai
