Ghana’s First Lady, Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama, has called for concerted global action to safeguard the future of children, urging world leaders to create a peaceful world with opportunities for growth and well-being.
She made the appeal at the Annual Prayer Service for Children, held at the Tillman Chapel, Church Centre for the United Nations in New York, on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Highlighting the growing uncertainty children face worldwide, Mrs. Mahama pointed to reduced funding for essential services, mistrust in institutions, and an erosion of hope.
“We gather here from different nations and cultures, but we are united by our shared faith,” she stated. “Through prayer and decisive leadership, we can create a world where every child is protected and empowered to achieve their full potential.”
The First Lady lamented the plight of thousands of children caught in armed conflicts and humanitarian crises, especially in Africa, where many are robbed of their childhood and forced to endure unimaginable suffering.
“These are precious lives destroyed by circumstances beyond their control,” she said. “When nations fail to focus on policies that safeguard the home, strengthen communities, and nurture the youth, it is our children who suffer the most.
They are the ones who lose parents, siblings, homes, and dreams—and carry emotional scars that can last forever.”
Mrs. Mahama reaffirmed her personal commitment through the Lordina Foundation, which supports orphans and vulnerable children in Ghana.
She expressed optimism that with broader global support, similar philanthropic initiatives could positively transform countless lives.
In her prayer, she lifted children worldwide into God’s care, asking for protection, provision, and guidance:
“Heavenly Father, I lift the needy and orphaned children in Ghana and across the world into your loving care… May these children grow in wisdom, strength, and joy, knowing that you love them.”
The Annual Prayer Service for Children was facilitated by World Vision International in partnership with the World Council of Churches, Caritas Internationalis, the Episcopal Church, and other faith-based organizations.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
