SOS Children’s Villages Ghana, a social Development organisation,on Thursday 10th October, launched the “Stomping for Peace” campaign, a global initiative rallying children to stomp their feet in solidarity with those growing up in conflict zones.
The National Director of SOS Children’s Villages in Ghana welcomed guests to the launch of the “Stomping for Peace” campaign, rallying support for children’s rights and peaceful environments.
Josiah Bernard Nartey read the welcome address on behalf of the Director, highlighting the plight of children in conflict zones and those displaced from their homes. “These numbers represent real children facing unimaginable hardships,” Nartey emphasized.
“The campaign aims to amplify children’s voices, advocating for their mental well-being, protection, and participation in peacebuilding. It serves as a call to action for all to stand up for children’s rights”, he added.
Accordingly, the Director’s representative disclosed that Children’s Villages Ghana recognizes children’s vulnerability during political unrest and seeks to ensure peace reigns, especially ahead of Ghana’s December general elections.
Nana Akyedze Aidoo, School Prefeact of SOS Hermann Gmeiner School Tema, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the plight of 400 million children living in conflict zones worldwide. “These children face severe consequences, losing loved ones, suffering trauma, and vulnerability to exploitation,” Aidoo emphasized.
Thís year marks the 35th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), a special document that outlines the rights ofe very child. However, we are left wondering-should we celebrate? Can we truly say we have made enough progress when so many children still suffer from the impacts of war and violence? Article 38 of the UNCRC says that countries must do everything they can to protect children affected by armed conflcts, yet we are still seeing chlldren in danger across the globe.
The campaign coincides with Ghana’s upcoming general elections and the 35th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Aidoo appealed to various stakeholders to ensure peaceful elections and prioritize children’s safety:
-Electoral Commission: uphold transparency and integrity
Politicians: prioritize peace over politics
Security forces: protect peace impartially
Media: promote responsible reporting
National Peace Council and Religious Leaders: preach peace and harmony
Parents and Guardians: model peaceful values
Children and Youth: raise voices for peace
Miss Aidoo concluded, “Let us stomp for peace! Let us stomp for the children who
cannot be here with us today! Let us stomp for a better future!”
By Kingsley Asiedu
