NCCE-Keta Takes GBV and Adolescent Health Campaign to Lord’s Gym Sunday Special

Members of the Lord’s Gym Sunday Special in Keta set aside their fitness routine to participate in a civic education session organized by the Keta Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE). The engagement focused on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), adolescent pregnancy, harmful social norms, and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).

The programme formed part of the project, “Empowering Community and Youth for Adolescent Health, Gender Equality, and Preventing Gender-Based Violence through Civic Engagement,” being implemented by NCCE in partnership with UNFPA and with financial support from Global Affairs Canada.

Recognizing that community development extends beyond physical fitness, the NCCE used the opportunity to educate participants on the importance of promoting respectful relationships, protecting adolescent rights, and advancing positive social values. Discussions highlighted the harmful effects of Gender-Based Violence on individuals, families, and communities, emphasizing that violence undermines human dignity, social cohesion, and national development.

Leading the engagement, the Municipal Director, Mad. Lina Elinam Bensah, underscored the critical role men and boys play in challenging harmful social norms, promoting positive masculinity, and advancing gender equality. She encouraged participants, many of whom were young men, to use their influence to inspire positive behavioral change and serve as role models within their communities.

The session also addressed adolescent pregnancy and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, stressing the importance of equipping young people with accurate information to make informed decisions about their health and future. Mad. Bensah further called on parents, guardians, coaches, and other community members to create safe and supportive environments where children, particularly girls, can thrive and achieve their full potential.

Through interactive discussions, participants shared personal experiences and proposed practical ways to prevent abuse, support vulnerable individuals, and promote peaceful coexistence. They were reminded that remaining silent in the face of abuse only perpetuates violence and were therefore encouraged to report cases of abuse and support victims.

The engagement concluded with participants reaffirming their commitment to promoting respect, equality, and non-violence both within the gym and in their wider communities. The Keta Municipal Office of the NCCE also reiterated its commitment to working with community groups and stakeholders to build safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities.