The Ghana Developing Communities Association (GDCA) has held a one-day stakeholders’ dialogue in Tamale to mark the closing of its seven-month civic education project, “Claim Your Space” — an initiative aimed at promoting awareness of human rights, public order, and civic responsibility among citizens.
The project, which commenced in February 2025 and ends in August, focused on bridging the gap between citizens and duty bearers, enhancing public understanding of rights and responsibilities, and promoting active citizen participation in governance processes.
Addressing participants at the closing session, Abdul Hafiz Yussif, Programme Officer at GDCA, explained that the project was introduced in response to the shrinking civic space in Ghana and aimed to empower citizens to engage constructively with state authorities.
“This project came as a result of the concept of the shrinking civic space in the country over the years. We initiated the ‘Claim Your Space’ initiative to strengthen civic engagement and ensure that citizens can interact with duty bearers for better governance,” he said.
He emphasized that governance thrives when citizens know and exercise their rights, including freedom of expression and peaceful demonstration. According to him, the initiative helped to inform and educate citizens, enabling them to play a more active role in democratic governance.
Funded by Global Focus, the pilot phase of the project brought together diverse stakeholders, including the media (led by the Ghana Journalists Association, Northern Region Chapter), the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), and the Ghana Police Service, all of whom played key roles in public education and outreach efforts.
Superintendent Odartey Nartey, Operational Commander with the Ghana Police Service, highlighted the police’s role in the initiative, particularly in educating students and community groups about their rights and responsibilities under the law.
“Security organizations work within the framework of the law. Once you understand and respect the laws of the country, you will not have issues with the police,” he noted.
On his part, the Northern Regional Director of the NCCE, Alhaji Aliyu Mohammed, stressed the need for both citizens and non-citizens living in Ghana to familiarize themselves with the country’s laws and constitution.
“Whether you are a citizen or non-citizen, once you are on the soil of Ghana, you need to understand the laws that govern us. Rights and responsibilities go hand in hand,” he stated.
Source:Fiilafmonline/Walkiyatu Issahaku
