Sign language access key to protect children with disability: Minister

Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Ghana's Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, attended a high-level meeting of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) alongside the First Lady of Ghana, Lordina Dramani Mahama. This summit took place during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. The event aimed to discuss strategies for improving the welfare and development of women, children, and young people across Africa, under the theme "A Legacy of Leadership: Delivering for Women and Girls".

During the discussions, Mrs Mahama emphasized the necessity of robust and resilient healthcare systems that can adequately serve mothers and children, focusing on maternal care, HIV prevention, early screening, and nutrition. She also highlighted the importance of education, women's economic empowerment, and gender equity, stressing that healthcare measures alone are insufficient for creating healthier families and communities.

Mrs Mahama reaffirmed Ghana's dedication to the Sustainable Development Goals and the principle of ensuring no woman or child is left behind.

Dr Lartey's attendance reflected Ghana's active involvement in continental efforts to develop policies and programs for women, children, and vulnerable groups. The African First Ladies' platform, OAFLAD, serves as a forum where African First Ladies collaborate on advocacy to promote maternal and child health, HIV and AIDS prevention, women's and youth empowerment, social protection, and gender equality.

The 2026 meeting marked the beginning of the countdown to OAFLAD's 25th anniversary in 2027, enabling members to assess the organization's accomplishments and refine its agenda for the future.