As the world grapples with the slow pace of gender equality, Plan International Ghana is warning that, at the current rate, full equality for girls may not be achieved for another 131 years.
This grim reality was the focus of discussions at Plan International Ghana’s Annual Media Engagement in Ho, where Country Director Constant Tchona made a passionate appeal for increased efforts to dismantle the systemic barriers limiting girls’ rights.
The Power of the Media in Driving Change
At the heart of the engagement was a challenge to journalists: move beyond traditional reporting and become powerful agents of change. Mr. Tchona stressed that impactful storytelling is not just about relaying facts—it’s about shifting public mindsets, influencing policies, and driving action. “Journalists have the power to amplify voices, expose injustices, and shape narratives that drive real transformation,” he said.
To equip journalists with firsthand insights, Plan International Ghana is facilitating a field visit to four rural communities in the Jasikan Municipality, Oti Region. The visit will give media professionals an unfiltered view of the struggles, resilience, and successes of girls in underserved areas. Mr. Tchona believes this experience will help journalists create stories that challenge stereotypes, push for accountability, and inspire real change.
Beyond Progress: The Risk of Regression
While recognizing significant progress in education, healthcare, and legal protections for girls, Mr. Tchona cautioned against complacency. “We are making progress, but challenges such as gender-based violence, child marriage, and economic exclusion are still deeply entrenched,” he noted.
A key concern highlighted by Mr. Tchona was the risk of regression. Gender equality gains are fragile, and without sustained effort, setbacks are inevitable. “It is not enough to celebrate achievements,” he emphasized. “We must actively defend and expand these gains.”
Transforming Lives Through Education and Empowerment
One of the most impactful initiatives Plan International Ghana has championed is education. “Education is not just about literacy—it’s a lifeline,” Mr. Tchona said, pointing to cases where education has enabled girls to escape poverty, forced marriages, and abuse.
In addition to education, the organization is investing in skills training, economic empowerment, and healthcare to build resilience among girls. “We are not just fighting for girls to survive—we want them to thrive, lead, and become agents of change in their communities,” he said.
A Call to Action: Uniting Forces for Lasting Impact
Mr. Tchona’s message was clear: gender equality is not just a women’s issue—it’s a societal imperative. He called on policymakers, community leaders, media professionals, and civil society groups to intensify efforts in ensuring that every girl has the right to learn, decide, lead, and thrive.
He urged journalists to adopt a long-term approach in their reporting. “We need storytelling that doesn’t just highlight problems but tracks solutions and measures progress,” he stressed.
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