Ghana Developing Communities Association Trains Stakeholders on Human Rights and Civic Responsibility in Tamale

The Ghana Developing Communities Association (GDCA) has held a one-day training workshop in Tamale aimed at promoting awareness of human rights legislation, public order, and civic responsibility among key stakeholders.

 

The event is part of the ongoing “Claim Your Space – Strengthening Civic Engagement in Ghana” project, which seeks to empower citizens to actively engage in governance and national development.

The initiative, which began in February and is expected to run until August, is focused on enhancing civic education and ensuring citizens understand their rights, responsibilities, and how to constructively interact with state authorities.

In his address, Executive Director of GDCA, Alhaji Osman Abdul Rahman, expressed appreciation to participants for their commitment to civic engagement.

He emphasized that the core objective of the project is to build a more informed and active citizenry capable of engaging meaningfully with institutions, particularly law enforcement agencies.

“The goal is to ensure that citizens are not only aware of their rights but also have the confidence and knowledge to express them responsibly,” Alhaji Osman stated.

Michael Boadi, Fundraising and Resource Mobilization Manager at Transparency International Ghana (formerly Ghana Integrity Initiative), delivered a presentation on human rights, civic space, public order, and citizen responsibility.

He stressed the importance of public education in safeguarding civic space.

“It is important that we educate people to know what their civic space is. Civic spaces are guaranteed, provided for, and regulated by law,” Mr. Boadi said. “We are here to help citizens understand their rights, their responsibilities, and how those rights interface with the rights of others. Respecting both our rights and those of others is essential for a harmonious and open civic space.”

He further pointed out that while governments are mandated to guarantee civic space through legislation, citizens must be knowledgeable about these laws to claim and protect their rights.

The workshop brought together representatives from civil society organizations, youth groups, traditional authorities, local government, and security agencies. It provided a platform for dialogue, capacity building, and knowledge sharing on the importance of civic engagement in democratic governance.

The “Claim Your Space” project continues to position itself as a vital intervention in deepening democratic participation and strengthening the voice of citizens in Ghana’s development process.

Source:Fiilafmonline/Walkiyatu Issahaku