Ghana’s First Lady, H.E. Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama, has called on world leaders and faith communities to renew their commitment to protecting and empowering children, particularly those caught in conflict and humanitarian crises.
Speaking at the 7th Annual Prayer Service for Children at the United Nations Church Centre’s Tillman Chapel in New York, Mrs. Mahama emphasized that children remain among the most vulnerable in times of war, poverty, and displacement.
The service, hosted by World Vision International and its partners, brought together diplomats, faith leaders, and advocates under the theme “A Moment of Hope.”
Mrs. Mahama, who was accompanied by greetings from President John Dramani Mahama and the people of Ghana, commended the organizers for their continued advocacy.
She noted that the theme was especially timely as world leaders gather for the 80th UN General Assembly amid global instability.
“Across the world, children are affected by conflicts and humanitarian crises. The UN estimates that hundreds of thousands of children are caught up in armed conflicts,” she said. “A significant number of these children are in Africa, where they are robbed of their childhood, forced to fight, and go through terrible experiences.”
She stressed that when nations fail to prioritize policies that safeguard families and communities, children bear the greatest cost—losing parents, homes, and opportunities, while enduring lifelong emotional scars.
Quoting Proverbs 9:10, the First Lady urged leaders to seek divine wisdom in order to make decisions that ensure peace and progress for children.
She further recalled Jesus’ message in Matthew 19:14: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
As part of her address, Mrs. Mahama led a prayer for children in Ghana and around the world, asking for God’s protection, provision, and guidance in their lives.
“May these children grow in wisdom, strength, and joy, knowing that you love them. Guide their paths with opportunities, surround them with kindness, and let their lives shine as testimonies of your unfailing grace and provision,” she prayed.
She also reaffirmed the work of the Lordina Foundation, which continues to champion initiatives to improve the welfare of women and children in Ghana.
Concluding her remarks, Mrs. Mahama expressed hope that God would bless and guide Ghana’s leadership to implement policies that safeguard children, expand opportunities, and prepare them for a brighter future.
“In this ‘Moment of Hope,’ let us renew our collective commitment. May God bless and protect our children as we lift them up in prayer, now and always,” she said.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
