The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in Ghana convened a two-day workshop focused on strengthening social protection systems, particularly the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program. This initiative underscores the Ministry’s dedication to ensuring vulnerable populations receive necessary support and fostering collaborative efforts among stakeholders. The workshop, held in Koforidua, brought together journalists, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), academics, and experts from organizations such as Journalists in Social Protection (JISOP) and Inclusion Ghana, as well as the leadership of the LEAP Management Secretariat, creating a platform for knowledge sharing and collaborative strategy development. The primary objective was to bridge communication gaps, enhance transparency surrounding social protection programs, and cultivate broader support for these crucial initiatives, effectively making participants advocates for social welfare improvement.
The workshop curriculum provided a comprehensive understanding of social protection systems in Ghana. Participants delved into the historical evolution of these systems, tracing their development and impact. A specific emphasis was placed on the LEAP program, exploring its origins, its achievements in poverty reduction, and its overall contribution to improving the lives of vulnerable Ghanaians. The role of various social partners, including government bodies, CSOs, and media organizations, was also a key discussion point, underscoring the importance of collaborative action in achieving effective and sustainable social protection outcomes. Finally, the workshop also outlined future plans and strategies for the LEAP program, providing participants with insights into the direction and ongoing development of this vital initiative.
Key figures at the workshop emphasized the critical need for collaborative engagement in social protection. Colson Akanbasiam, Head of Communications at the LEAP Management Secretariat, stressed the vital role of partnerships in implementing policies that effectively reach and benefit vulnerable populations. He commended the ongoing support from stakeholders and encouraged participants to actively promote social protection systems within their respective spheres of influence. This call to action aimed to transform the workshop attendees into ambassadors for social welfare, extending the impact of the event beyond the immediate participants.
Auberon Jeleel Odoom, National Coordinator for Inclusion Ghana, highlighted the imperative of strengthening social protection systems to provide a safety net for vulnerable individuals, particularly those with disabilities. He advocated for increased public awareness and engagement with social protection programs, emphasizing the right of every citizen to access and benefit from these support systems. This perspective broadened the conversation beyond program mechanics to encompass the fundamental right of all citizens to social well-being and protection.
Mohamed Fugu, President of JISOP, lauded the workshop as an enlightening experience for journalists, commending the Ministry and the LEAP Management Secretariat for their commitment to transparency and information dissemination. He encouraged journalists to actively contribute to public understanding by developing projects that highlight the importance and impact of social protection systems. This emphasis on the media’s role in shaping public perception underscored the importance of accurate and impactful reporting on social welfare issues.
The workshop serves as a tangible demonstration of the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection’s commitment to reinforcing social safety nets and prioritizing the well-being of vulnerable Ghanaians. By empowering journalists and CSOs with deeper knowledge and understanding of social protection systems, the Ministry aims to amplify awareness and encourage collective action. This strategic approach leverages the influence and reach of key communicators and advocates to promote wider public understanding and support for programs like LEAP. The workshop participants, now equipped with a comprehensive understanding of social protection mechanisms, are poised to become key advocates, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. Through collaborative efforts and effective communication, the Ministry seeks to create a sustainable and impactful social protection framework that benefits all Ghanaians. This initiative represents a significant stride toward achieving a more socially just and equitable future for Ghana, where the needs of the most vulnerable are met and their well-being is prioritized.
