STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIVE MEETING ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN FOR STREET-CONNECTED CHILDREN AND YOUNG PERSONS

Street-connected children and young persons represent a vulnerable population whose rights to protection, education, healthcare, and social inclusion are often unmet.

In response to this persistent issue, the Department of Social Welfare developed a comprehensive Five-Year Strategic Plan (2024–2028) to coordinate and enhance interventions aimed at safeguarding the rights and welfare of Street-Connected Children and Young Persons.

To ensure effective implementation, a one-day stakeholder consultative meeting was held on Thursday 29th May 2025, by the Department of Social Welfare under the auspices of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection.

The meeting sought to share the strategic plan, solicit feedback, strengthen partnerships, and define collaborative roles.

It was also to help align efforts among key stakeholders and ensure the successful rollout of this critical strategic plan.

Speaking at the meeting on behalf of the Chief Director of MoGCSP, Dr Afisah Zakariah, the Ag. Director, Dr. Prince Boamah Abrah indicated that the implementation of the Five-Year Strategic Plan is a chance to make sure no child is left behind on the streets of Ghana.

“This meeting serves as a movement to reclaim the future of thousands of children leaving and working on the streets,” he reiterated.

Dr. Prince Boamah Abrah reaffirmed the government, the ministry, and the Department of Social Welfare’s commitment to ensure a successful implementation of Five-Year Strategic Plan.

He therefore pleaded with the stakeholders to add their inputs, experience, and expertise to the deliberations, because the plan is a blueprint for action, which requires all hand in deck.

Key Highlights and Discussions was focused on brief overview of the strategic plan, draft activity plan for strategy one, and activity plan review, among others.

The consultative meeting was a critical step in advancing collective action toward the protection and empowerment of street-connected children and young persons.

Source: MoGCSP