Collaborative Efforts Needed to Address Street Children Issues in Ghana
Dr. Prince Boamah Abrah, Acting National Director of the Department of Social Welfare, represented Hon. Dr. Agnes Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, at a recent symposium organized by the Children Empowerment Foundation (SCEF). The event focused on the theme: “Accelerating the Implementation of Ghana’s 5-Year Strategic Plan for Street-Connected Children and Young Persons: From Policy to Action.”
Dr. Abrah urged stakeholders—including government agencies, NGOs, faith-based organizations, community leaders, and international partners—to unite in shaping policies and translate them into effective actions to address issues related to street children. He highlighted that social service organizations are currently reaching out to over 100 street children daily while also raising awareness through street campaigns and stakeholder engagements.
He stressed the importance of collaboration among all involved parties, stating, “We must be intentional in our actions to solve the challenges faced by street-connected children in our country.”
Also present at the symposium was Paul Semeh, Founder and Executive Director of SCEF. During a panel discussion, he emphasized that the government can play a pivotal role in motivating social organizations to enhance their contributions to improving the lives of young people.
“As we celebrate the International Day for Street Children 2025 and mark our 15th anniversary, we call on the government to show genuine commitment. Enforcing our existing laws and regulations can significantly mitigate the challenges faced by street children. Without enforcement, the impact of our laws remains limited,” he stated.
Reflecting on SCEF’s accomplishments, Semeh noted that since its inception in 2010, the organization has worked tirelessly to uplift and transform the lives of street-connected children in Ghana. SCEF provides access to education, healthcare, and family empowerment programs, achieving remarkable milestones that continue to inspire change.
Activities of SCEF
- Rescue and Reintegration: SCEF has successfully rescued, rehabilitated, and reintegrated street-connected children into society, ensuring they have access to education and social protection.
Empowerment**: The organization empowers families through skill-building and livelihood support programs, creating stable and sustainable environments for children to thrive.
- Advocacy for Child Rights: SCEF partners with policymakers and stakeholders to advocate for safer and more inclusive systems for vulnerable children.
Dr. Abrah and Paul Semeh’s calls to action highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the challenges faced by street-connected children in Ghana.
By: Frank Owusu Obimpeh
