Religious Sisters in Ghana undergo safeguarding training to protect children and vulnerable adults

The training, being held at the Christian Village, Santasi, began on April 13 and will conclude on April 17, 2026. It brings together Sisters serving as safeguarding focal persons in their respective institutes to deepen their understanding of child protection, ethical responsibility, and care for vulnerable adults.

The workshop opened with a Holy Mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Sylvester Ramah, who called on participants to embrace their role as “shepherds and protectors,” especially of the marginalised and the “little ones.” In his homily, he urged the Sisters to reflect Christ in their ministry and to become “vectors” of the Gospel through safeguarding.

He explained the concept of “VECTOR” as a framework for safeguarding, encouraging participants to value each person, support one another, remain committed to the well-being of others, and continually review their actions in safeguarding contexts.

In a welcome address, Sr. Theodora Adzayawo, SMMC, Executive Secretary of the Conference of Major Superiors of Religious, Ghana, underscored the urgency of safeguarding within the Church’s mission.

“Our mission is not only to serve but to ensure that every environment we create is a sanctuary of safety and respect. This workshop is a testament to our collective commitment to transparency, accountability, and the dignity of every human person,” she said.

She also highlighted the various initiatives under the Conference, including the African Sisters Education Collaborative, the National Association of Formators, Talitha Kum, Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC), the Catholic Sister Communicators Network Ghana, and ongoing formation programmes for Religious.

Participants are engaging in sessions covering legal frameworks, psychological dimensions of abuse, and the development of safeguarding policies tailored to their ministries in schools, hospitals, and parishes. The workshop also provides a platform for experience sharing, networking, and building a national support system of trained safeguarding leads.

Facilitators for the training include Sr. Bernadine Pemii, DC; Sr. Rejoice Enyonam Hoedoafia, SDLM; Sr. Bernadette Dery, SSpS; Sr. Olivia Umoh, DC; and Fr. Gregory Dery.

As the sessions continue, the Sisters are expected to translate safeguarding principles into practical actions that ensure safer environments across Church institutions in Ghana.

This report was filed by Sr. Agnes Mercy Nyatsoe, SMMC (Catholic Sister Communicators Network, Ghana-CASCON-GH)