Marriage of 12-year-old: ‘Review your traditional practices’ — NCCE urges Nungua Traditional Council

The Nungua Traditional Council in Ghana is facing criticism from the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) over its reported approval of a marriage between a 12-year-old girl and 63-year-old Gborbu.

In a statement dated April 2, the NCCE said it was "appalled" by the announcement and expressed concern that "cultural practices that are illegal and unconstitutional have no place in our democracy."

The commission referenced Ghana's Children's Act, which prohibits marriage for those under 18.

It also cited constitutional protections, quoting article 39 which states that "traditional practices which are injurious to the health and well-being of the person are abolished."

NCCE chairperson Kathleen Addy urged the traditional council to "review its traditional practices to bring them in line with the laws and 1992 Constitution of Ghana."

She called on the National and Regional Houses of Chiefs, Gender Ministry and Social Welfare Services to intervene to protect the child's interests.