The river Offin ‘gods’ can stop menstruating girls; why can’t they stop galamsey?
For years, I reported that girls living along the River Offin were barred from crossing on Tuesdays and while menstruating. As bizarre as this sounds, the practice persists. Human rights activists and the public were outraged when the story first broke. In 2018, then Deputy Education Minister Yaw Osei Adutwum promised that no child would […]
The river Offin, home to ancient deities, has played a strange role in the lives of girls in Ghana. These gods, believed to hold power over menstruating girls and on Tuesdays, have been used to justify denying girls access to education. Despite promises from government officials, the practice persisted for years, leaving girls missing essential days of school.
Human rights activists and the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child intervened, leading to a significant ruling in 2026. The Committee found Ghana in violation of the girls' rights to education and non-discrimination. This case marks the first time the Committee has found Ghana in violation, setting a precedent for addressing harmful customs.
However, while the ruling is a victory for the girls, the real challenge remains. The Committee has recommended building a permanent bridge, implementing safety measures, providing academic support, and engaging with traditional leaders. But the responsibility now lies with the state to ensure girls can attend school freely and without discrimination.
Written by urgent.news from Adom Online's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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