Volta Region joins UNFPA’s Eighth Country Programme for development

The Volta region has been selected as an implementing partner for the United Nations Population Fund's (UNFPA) Eighth Country Programme, which will span from 2023 to 2028.

Following the successful conclusion of the Seventh Country Programme, in which the region was also a beneficiary, the Volta Region has been chosen by the Government of Ghana to participate in the Eighth Country Programme.

Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, Volta Regional Minister, expressed his appreciation to the UNFPA for this selection and pledged full commitment to ensuring the success of the new programme.

He acknowledged the significant support and partnership of the Fund in promoting sexual and reproductive health, as well as advocating against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

Dr Letsa also commended the Sub-Implementing Partners and Development Partners for their contributions to the region's development and growth.

The Minister emphasized the Volta Region's dedication to reducing sexual and gender-based violence, child marriage, and maternal mortality, and called for support from all stakeholders.

Mr Vitus Atanga, Programme Officer at the UNFPA, expressed his delight at the region's enthusiastic participation in the programme during a stakeholders' engagement meeting with the media.

He highlighted the positive impact of the Fund's support, as evidenced by the success stories shared by various implementing partners.

Mr Atanga called on the media to play a crucial role in advocacy and creating awareness, particularly in empowering adolescent girls and boys to lead healthy lives and fulfil their potential.

Mrs Thywill Eyra Kpe, Volta Regional Director of the Department of Gender, revealed that challenges encountered during the implementation of the Seventh Country Programme included myths and misconceptions about family planning.

She also cited inadequate monitoring and supervisory visits to districts and facilities due to a lack of vehicles, as well as a scarcity of adolescent and youth-friendly educational materials in many districts.

Mr Augustus Kwaku Awity, Chief Director of the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC), disclosed that special attention would be given to districts with high levels of SGBV, child marriage, and teenage pregnancy during the implementation of the Eighth Country Programme.