News
Journalists Brainstorm Issues of Child Labour on Cocoa Farms
In a quiet conference room nestled within Royal Lee’s Hotel, the voices of Ghana’s newsroom leaders echoed with renewed purpose. They had gathered not just to share editorial strategies, but to confront a haunting reality: the persistent shadow of child labour and forced labour in the cocoa fields that fuel Ghana’s global reputation.
The two-day workshop, held on October 2–3, was spearheaded by the International Cocoa Initiative (ICI), a leading organisation committed to protecting children in cocoa-growing communities across West Africa. The event, dubbed ‘News Editors’ Experience Sharing’, was more than a professional gathering—it was a call to conscience.
For many participants, the discussions stirred memories of children seen hauling heavy loads, missing school, or trapped in cycles of poverty. “We must remember that behind every cocoa bean is a child who deserves to dream,” said Mr. Kingsley E. Hope, the immediate past Ashanti Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA). His presentation on ‘Media Landscape and Child Labour Reporting in Ghana’ urged editors to elevate advocacy reporting from the margins to the mainstream.
The workshop followed an earlier session in Kumasi for frontline journalists, where stories of field reporting were shared—some harrowing, others hopeful. Journalists recounted moments when their investigations led to rescued children, sensitised communities, or policy shifts. But they also spoke of challenges: editorial constraints, limited airtime, and the struggle to pitch stories that don’t always promise clicks but carry moral weight.
Madam Ernestina Oppong, Deputy News Editor at Kessben Media, offered practical guidance on ‘How to Pitch a Story on Child Labour’, emphasising the need to humanise statistics and spotlight the resilience of affected families. “It’s not just about exposing the problem,” she said. “It’s about telling the story of a child who got back to school, a mother who found support, or a community that changed.”
ICI’s Training and Safeguarding Manager, Nancy Aguteba, led sessions on child labour concepts and safeguarding, reminding editors that ethical reporting must protect the dignity of children while amplifying their plight. The Communications Director, Katie Bird, underscored that child labour is not just Ghana’s burden—it’s a global concern. “We must sustain the momentum,” she urged, “and ensure that these children are not forgotten once the headlines fade.”
ICI’s interventions go beyond workshops. They include educational support, apprenticeships for teenagers, household income initiatives, and cash transfers to vulnerable families, each designed to break the cycle of exploitation and restore childhoods.
From Kingsley E. Hope,
Mampong-Akuapem
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TODAY is Valentine’s Day, and red is the colour of the day. Red is considered a powerful colour, symbolising strength, courage, and passion.
Celebrities continue to slay in their red outfits, setting trends whenever they step out. From bold gowns to chic casual wear, red remains the ultimate statement for Valentine’s Day.
Some standout designs include:
- Berla Mundi – Stunning in a floor-length red dress paired with matching heels, radiating elegance and confidence.
- Celebrity street style – Casual yet eye-catching red ensembles, perfect for Valentine’s Day outings or social events.
- Accessory highlights – Red bags, shoes, and hats add a pop of power to otherwise simple outfits.
Whether for a romantic date or a fun celebration with friends, red ensures you are seen and remembered. On this Valentine’s Day, embrace the colour of love, courage, and energy—it’s your time to shine.
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TO promote Ghana’s cultural heritage, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts has announced that government is encouraging Ghanaians to dedicate every Wednesday to the wearing of Fugu, also known as Batakari or smock, as part of efforts to promote the country’s cultural heritage.
In a correspondence dated February 10, 2026, the ministry explained that the initiative forms part of government’s broader commitment to preserve, promote and celebrate Ghana’s rich cultural identity.
It called on all Ghanaians, as well as friends of Ghana both at home and abroad, to take part by wearing fugu in its various designs and styles, together with its traditional accessories.
According to the ministry, the move is aimed at deepening national cultural awareness and strengthening the country’s sense of identity, while projecting Ghana’s heritage to the international community with pride.
The ministry further noted that the initiative is expected to bring social and economic benefits to the country.
It explained that increased use of fugu would support local weavers, designers, artisans and traders involved in the production and sale of the attire, while also creating more business and employment opportunities across the value chain.
Government believes that the nationwide embrace of fugu will help strengthen national unity, boost the creative economy and serve as a strong symbol of Ghana’s cultural confidence and self expression.
The correspondence was signed by the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, who reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to policies that promote Ghanaian culture and creative industries.
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