Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Elikplim Akurugu
The Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya, Elikplim Akurugu, has called for increased attention to the unique challenges facing boys in Ghana during her keynote address at the International Day of the Boy Child celebration held at Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Atomic, Accra, on May 16, 2025.
Speaking as the guest of honour at the event organised by The Boy Child Supportive Care Foundation, Akurugu praised the foundation’s commitment to the holistic development of boys, particularly those from underserved communities.
She stressed the urgent need to address the societal neglect of boys and to provide them with the tools to value themselves, their families, and their communities.
“Boys, like girls, deserve attention, protection, and empowerment,” Akurugu stated. “For too long, societal conversations and policies have disproportionately focused on one side of the gender equation. While that focus has been necessary, we must ensure boys are not left behind.”
This year’s celebration was held under the theme “Empowering Boys to Value Themselves, Their Family and Community”.
The MP underscored the harmful stereotypes that discourage boys from expressing vulnerability and seeking help, leading to silent struggles with mental health.
“As lawmakers, educators, parents, and community members, we must challenge these narratives and build a society where boys feel safe, supported, and valued,” she said.
Akurugu, who is also a mother, pledged her unwavering support for legislative and policy initiatives that create gender-balanced development opportunities. She advocated for a national approach that ensures every child, regardless of gender, has the chance to thrive.
She lauded the foundation’s efforts in providing mentorship and emotional support to boys, describing their work as “planting seeds of hope, confidence, and discipline” in the next generation of men, fathers, and leaders.
The event drew support from various stakeholders, including educators, youth advocates, civil society leaders, and development partners, all committed to shifting the conversation on gender equity to include the often-overlooked needs of boys.
In her closing remarks, Akurugu called for sustained national dialogue and action to promote the well-being of boys across Ghana, emphasising that empowering boys is essential to building a more inclusive and resilient society.
“Together, let us build a Ghana where every child matters,” she concluded.
