As the National Measles, Rubella & Vitamin A Campaign launched across Ghana last week, the nation came together to ensure children in all 16 regions received critical vaccinations. I had the privilege of accompanying my UNICEF colleagues from the Health, Social Behavior Change (SBC) and Education Section and internationally acclaimed photographer Noorani Shehzad in the Ashanti region to photograph, monitor the campaign, and provide communication support.
While this essential effort was unfolding, I found myself captivated by an equally inspiring story taking place quietly in the background—men defying traditional gender roles and reshaping their communities in profound ways.
Over the span of three days, I encountered three generations of men who are rewriting what it means to be a man in their communities.
Tuesday, October 2, 2024: A Grandfather’s Devotion to Health
Our first day began with a journey to Hiampenika, a small cocoa-farming community two and a half hours from Kumasi. After the long drive, we arrived at the vaccination site and found a group of about 15 women and children waiting patiently. Among them stood Kofi Kwah, an 80-year-old man, the only male present. He held his three-year-old grandson, Amos, in his arms, ready to get him vaccinated.
Kwah had been there since 6 a.m., eager not to miss the chance to protect his grandson from preventable diseases. As we spoke, Kwah shared that he had five children and nine grandchildren, and Amos’ mother had traveled to a nearby town, leaving him in charge. His reason for stepping up was simple: “If you care about your family, you make sacrifices for them.”
Despite the stigma often associated with men taking on traditionally female roles, Kwah brushed aside any concerns. “I’m too old for much else,” he said with a smile. “But caring for my family gives me a new purpose in life. They make me happy.”
Kwah’s message to other men in his community was clear: every man has a responsibility to ensure his family’s well-being. “If we don’t, we’ll face hardship—not just in health, but economically,” he said firmly.
In a society where traditional gender roles are often unquestioned, Kofi Kwah is breaking the mold, embodying true care and responsibility. His actions illustrate the importance of family, and the sacrifices men must make to keep their loved ones healthy.
Wednesday, October 3, 2024: The Naana of New Bonfa Methodist Basic School
On the second day, we traveled to the Juaben municipality, where we visited New Bonfa Methodist Basic School during a Parent-Teacher meeting. The school grounds were alive with energy, but one figure stood out—an elderly man supported by a walking stick, surrounded by a group of children who affectionately called him “Naana,” the Twi word for grandfather.
This man was Evangelist Abraham Owusu, a 91-year-old retired church planter with no biological grandchildren at the school, yet he has become a beloved figure in the community. Owusu told me that, to him, every child at New Bonfa Methodist is family. His belief in the transformative power of education runs deep. “School brings about good wealth and teaches you about life,” he said. “Everything I have achieved; I owe to education.”
Owusu is a father of 10 and a grandfather of 36. His passion for education extends far beyond his own family, however. For nearly two decades, he has been a supporter of the school, providing financial support and daily encouragement to students. He funds the cleaning of the school, buys snacks for the children, and is present at nearly every school event.
“I want these children to have the same opportunities I had. My life changed because of school, and I want theirs to change too,” he said. His actions are a testament to the belief that education is the key to a brighter future. Evangelist Owusu’s story highlights the power of quiet, sustained community involvement and the profound difference one person can make.
Thursday, October 4, 2024: A Teacher’s Mission: Using Sports to Inspire the Next Generation
On the third day, I met Addo Dascoster, a Class 6 teacher and Physical Education (PE) instructor at Atiah Primary School. Dascoster stands out not only for his work in the classroom but for his dedication to using sports as a tool for empowerment. A father of three, he sees his role as both a teacher and a parent as crucial to setting the right example for his students.
Dascoster’s journey into teaching was not straightforward. He originally aspired to become a professional footballer but lacked the support to pursue his dream. Instead of giving up, he became a teacher, determined to help children realize their potential. “Not everyone excels in academics, but every child has a talent that must be appreciated,” he told me. “Through sports, I help my students uncover their potential, so they can become successful athletes or even better individuals in the future.”
For Dascoster, sports have become a means of motivating students to attend school. He observed that many children were reluctant to come on Fridays, but the introduction of PE has changed that. “Now, they look forward to Fridays,” he said with a smile.
Dascoster’s story is a reminder that education extends beyond academics—it’s about nurturing the whole child, encouraging them to find their strengths, and supporting them in their dreams.
A Hopeful Future: Men Changing the Narrative
As I left Kumasi, I felt a renewed sense of optimism. The stories of Kofi Kwah, Evangelist Abraham Owusu, and Addo Dascoster have shown me that the narrative around men in Ghana is shifting. These men are stepping into roles traditionally reserved for women, taking an active part in their communities, and demonstrating that care, education, and empowerment are everyone’s responsibility.
Their stories exemplify a new era of men’s involvement in health, education, and community development. This changing narrative offers hope for a future where men’s participation is not just accepted but celebrated. As I reflect on their journeys, I feel more determined than ever to advocate for male inclusion in programming that fosters prosperity and communal growth.
The National Measles, Rubella & Vitamin A Campaign was a collaborative effort between the Government of Ghana, the World Health Organization (WHO), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Rotary Club, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and other key partners. Their support was instrumental in ensuring the successful implementation of the campaign and reaching children in all corners of the country.
Special thanks to Canada, GAVI and partners for supporting immunization in Ghana.
