Pregnancy must not end girls’ education — Gender Minister

Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, addressed the high-level launch of the State of Africa’s Children Report 2026 in New York on September 23, 2026. President John Dramani Mahama delivered the address via video conference. The launch, held at UNICEF House on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, centered on children’s rights, well-being, and development across Africa, with a focus on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions.

Dr Lartey highlighted the report's crucial role in enabling African nations to evaluate their efforts in ensuring equal opportunities for every child, especially girls, for survival, education, development, participation, and fulfillment. She emphasized that access to clean water, safe sanitation, and proper hygiene is essential for children's well-being and dignity, noting that women and girls disproportionately suffer from inadequate access to water and sanitation.

Dr Lartey called for greater attention to these challenges as part of Africa’s gender and development agenda.

Additionally, the Minister emphasized Ghana’s Revolving Fund for Sanitation, cited in the report as a prime example of innovative, locally-driven sanitation financing solutions. She stressed the importance of evidence-based interventions and sustainable financing to tackle sanitation challenges across the continent.