Hon. Hajia Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah Earns Praise as Ghana Impresses at CRC Session in Geneva

Hon. Hajia Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah, the Member of Parliament for Salaga South, has recorded a highly successful first day of engagement at the ongoing session of the Committee on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in Geneva, Switzerland, with Ghana receiving strong international commendation for its child protection efforts.

During the session, the CRC applauded Ghana for demonstrating a firm commitment to promoting and protecting the rights and welfare of children through progressive policies, legal reforms, and targeted interventions. The Committee particularly commended the country’s strides in addressing critical child-related issues such as child labour, teenage pregnancy, child sexual exploitation—including child pornography—and the gradual elimination of corporal punishment.

One of the major highlights of Ghana’s presentation was the implementation of the Ghana Accelerated Action Plan Against Child Labour, which has contributed significantly to reducing the prevalence of child labour across various sectors of the economy. The CRC noted that the plan reflects Ghana’s proactive approach to tackling the root causes of child labour through policy coordination, enforcement, and community engagement.

The Committee also praised Ghana’s policies aimed at preventing teenage pregnancy, especially among schoolgirls. These initiatives, which combine education, health services, and community awareness, were acknowledged as important steps toward safeguarding the future of young girls. In addition, Ghana was commended for putting in place mechanisms that allow young mothers to re-enter the educational system after childbirth, ensuring that pregnancy does not permanently disrupt a child’s right to education.

Furthermore, the CRC recognized Ghana’s robust legal and policy framework designed to protect children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. These frameworks, supported by institutions and social protection systems, were described as essential in creating a safer environment for children across the country.

The CRC session serves as an important platform for Ghana to present its progress in advancing children’s rights while engaging with international experts, civil society actors, and development partners. It also offers the opportunity for the country to receive constructive feedback and recommendations aimed at strengthening existing policies and addressing remaining challenges.

Hon. Hajia Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah’s participation underscores Ghana’s continued commitment to upholding international child rights standards and reinforcing its position as a leading advocate for child welfare within the global community.

Source: Kofi Anyigba| Contributor