Central Adoption Authority holds first quarter board meeting

The Central Adoption Authority (CAA) has held its first-quarter Board meeting, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening adoption processes and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children across the country.

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, in her opening remarks, underscored the critical role of the Board in ensuring that adoption processes are carried out in the best interest of the child.

She noted that the Board is mandated to regulate and oversee adoption procedures, assess applications, and ensure that every child placed in adoption is provided with a safe, secure, and nurturing environment.

During the meeting, the Minister administered the Oath of Office and Secrecy to two new members, including the new Chief Director of MoGCSP, Marian Kpakpah, who assumes the position of Chairperson of the Board.

Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey also used the opportunity to formally introduce the new Chief Director to members, expressing confidence in her leadership and urging the Board to extend full cooperation and support to enhance the work of the Ministry.

The Minister further commended members of the Board for their dedication and continued support in advancing the Ministry's mandate, particularly in safeguarding the rights and well-being of children through a responsible and transparent adoption system.

In her remarks, Marian Kpakpah pledged to work collaboratively with members to strengthen the Board's operations. She emphasized the need for integrity, professionalism, and a child-centred approach in all adoption-related decisions, adding that the Board would work diligently to ensure that every child finds a loving and supportive home.

The Head of the Central Adoption Authority, Stephen Dombo, delivered a presentation on the mandate of the Board, highlighting its responsibility to regulate adoption practices, ensure compliance with established guidelines, and promote ethical standards in adoption processes. He stressed that the work of the Board remains central to protecting children and securing their future through responsible placements.

The meeting also featured extensive discussions on strategies to improve efficiency, transparency, and coordination in adoption procedures, as well as efforts to strengthen systems and stakeholder collaboration.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the presentation of a citation to Bright Appiah of Child Rights International by the Minister, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the protection and promotion of children's rights.

He was particularly commended for his advocacy efforts and his instrumental role in supporting the establishment of a childcare centre at the Ministry, which provides a safe space for nursing mothers to leave their children while they work.

The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by members to work with urgency and dedication to ensure that every child is given the opportunity to grow in a safe, loving, and supportive family environment.