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Second Lady, Samira Bawumia has urged government agencies to scale-up efforts that protect children from abuse and violence.

Mrs. Bawumia in a statement on the International Day of the African Child and 30th Anniversary of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC) said it was time child abuse was completely eliminated to ensure children have a safe environment to pursue their dreams.

“Children have rights unhinged on any consideration, to live and develop holistically, express their views on issues that affect them and their interests made paramount in any decision or action that affects them.”

“These fundamental provisions of the ACRWC clearly demands of us to be deliberate about the future of our children and to strive to create a society where their welfare is prioritized,” she said.

She noted that the theme for this year’s commemoration, “Access to child-friendly justice in Ghana” is relevant to the pursuit of the development of the Ghanaian child in recent times.

She said a robust and child-friendly justice system will not only protect Ghanaian children from the harrowing tendencies of child trafficking and sexual abuse and exploitation but also ensure willingness on the part of victims to report violations and cooperate throughout the process.

“We have made giant strides in child protection. Over the years, we have put in place legislative instruments and frameworks that endeavour to look out for the child … it is our collective responsibility as parents and people in positions of influence to help shape their lives. Let us all work together to ensure that no child is left behind,” she added.