On Saturday, 7th February 2026, AFJN-Ghana organized an action-driven stakeholders’ briefing in Tamale under the theme: “Empowering Communities and Vulnerable Individuals in Ghana to Work Together Towards Ending Early Child Marriage and Domestic Servitude.” The event served as a refresher training for community focal persons, women leaders in skills development, youth leaders, and core advocacy group members.
In total, 63 participants attended the program, including focal persons, women leaders in skills development, youth leaders, core advocacy group members, and various partners and invited guests. Among them were Mr. Roland Abdul Alhassan of Averu Pawa Electrical Works, representatives from the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), a representative from SARI (Savanna Agricultural Research Institute), a representative from Diare in Tamale, as well as youth leaders, Assembly Members, trainers, and opinion leaders from Tamale and nearby communities.
Sr. Ignatia Sarfowaa Boaben HHCJ, Project Director of AFJN-Ghana, delivered the opening remarks. She reintroduced the AFJN Network and highlighted its vision and mission. Sr. Ignatia spoke extensively about the causes of early child marriage—including poverty, ignorance, and cultural or religious norms—and its severe effects such as psychological trauma, life-threatening childbirth complications, and the loss of future opportunities for girls. She also addressed the issue of parents sending their children to major cities like Kumasi and Accra for domestic work (Kayaye). She encouraged focal persons to actively challenge these practices and participate fully in discussions.
Mr. Roland Abdul Alhassan of Averu Pawa Electrical Works shared insights into his training institution, which was registered in 2014 and offers a three-month intensive practical training followed by a three-month compulsory attachment. The institute is certified by the Energy Commission of Ghana and the Volta River Authority (VRA). He praised the performance of the five female trainees referred by AFJN-Ghana, noting their confidence and technical competence during his presentation.
Mr. Simon also provided an overview of the Conrad Hilton Project, summarizing its aims, objectives, and collaborative approach. He emphasized partnerships with faith-based groups, legal professionals, technical trainers, community leaders, and safe community reporting groups. He clarified that the project does not involve the distribution of money but focuses on empowering communities to access opportunities and break the cycle of poverty. He further assured participants that the initiative is strongly supported by the Northern Regional Minister and relevant state agencies.
A representative from CHRAJ addressed the legal implications of child marriage, urging participants to seek free legal assistance from the CHRAJ office when dealing with cases of forced or early marriage. He encouraged parents and community leaders to prioritize education rather than early marriage or domestic servitude and condemned practices that use girls as bargaining tools to strengthen family ties.
Dr. Francis Kusi Director of SARI shared insights into challenges and opportunities within the agricultural sector. He discussed how young people often see farming as a punishment, while farmers view it as low-income due to fluctuating market prices. He introduced new agricultural technologies, such as producing yam tubers from yam leaves, and affirmed that SARI is ready to support individuals interested in farming. Participants engaged in a lively question-and-answer session on farming challenges, climate change, crop diseases, and improved farming techniques.
After the presentations, community groups met to develop project ideas aimed at reducing poverty. Proposed initiatives included goat and guinea fowl rearing, electrical installation training, and poultry farming. Some communities also proposed forming youth football teams to promote teamwork, emotional discipline, unity, and mental resilience among young people.
Meals were provided for all participants, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming environment throughout the program.
