Dr. Frank Amoakohene Calls for United Front to Eradicate Child Labour in Ashanti Region
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has called on traditional leaders, institutions, development partners, and citizens to unite in efforts to completely eradicate child labour from Ghanaian communities.
Speaking at the official declaration of Child Labour Free Zones at Kuffour Camp in the Atwima Mponua District on the theme “Strengthening Systems, Empowering Communities and Sustaining Futures,” Dr. Amoakohene said depriving children of their childhood remains one of the biggest obstacles to national development.
“Our greatest obstacle to sustainable development across the country is when we deprive children of their childhood, when we deprive them of education and quality healthcare,” the Regional Minister stated.
“With the eradication of child labour in these zones, we definitely expect to see an increase in school enrollment, and an improvement in the welfare and wellbeing of children within the three districts and municipality.”
The declaration marks the rollout of the Child Labour Free Zones initiative in three pilot districts within the Ashanti Region, including Atwima Mponua.
Dr. Amoakohene expressed satisfaction that one of his districts was selected among the first to be declared.
“I am glad that one of his districts falls part of the three maiden districts that are being declared today as free Child Labour zones,” he said.
“This is a bold step towards securing the future of our children.”
He explained that the initiative is designed to strengthen local systems, empower communities to monitor and report cases, and create sustainable environments where children can learn, play, and grow without exploitation.
A Collective Responsibility
The Minister urged all stakeholders to take ownership of the fight against child labour, stressing that government alone cannot win the battle.
“Every child should be protected,” Dr. Amoakohene charged. “Together let us preserve the dream of every child, and together let us build the Ghana that we all desire.
Traditional authorities must lead by example in their communities. Parents must prioritize education. And institutions must enforce the laws that protect children.”
He added that eliminating child labour will not only improve education outcomes but will also contribute to reducing poverty, improving health indicators, and building a more productive future workforce.
Appreciation to Development Partners
Dr. Amoakohene commended Japan’s development agency, JICA, for its massive support towards the fight to end child labour in the region.
“I applaud our Japanese partners, JICA, for their massive support towards this fight in ending child labour,” he said.
“Their partnership demonstrates that when we work together across borders, we can achieve meaningful change for our children.”
The launch event brought together chiefs, assembly members, teachers, NGOs, and community members who pledged commitment to sustain the Child Labour Free Zones through education, sensitization, and community monitoring.
