Ghana’s First Lady, HE Lordina Mahama, has called on the international community to prioritize the protection and empowerment of children across the world.
Speaking at the special annual prayer service for peace and children hosted by World Vision International and its partners on the sideline of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Mrs. Mahama urged leaders and faith communities to combine prayer with decisive action to safeguard vulnerable children, especially those affected by conflict and humanitarian crises.
Addressing the gathering of global leaders, faith-based organizations, and advocates, the First Lady extended greetings from Ghana and highlighted her work through the Lordina Foundation, which focuses on improving the lives of women and children.
She commended the organizers for choosing this year’s theme, A Moment of Hope, describing it as timely given the rapid shifts in the global order.
“We gather here from different nations and cultures, but we are united by our shared faith. Through prayer and collective action, we can create a world where every child is protected and empowered to achieve their full potential”.
Ghana’s First Lady, HE Lordina Mahama
Mrs. Mahama emphasized that the challenges facing children are vast but not insurmountable, echoing her husband, President John Dramani Mahama’s view that strong leadership is critical.
She noted that the United Nations estimates hundreds of thousands of children worldwide are caught in armed conflicts, with many in Africa forced into combat, separated from their families, and exposed to trauma.
“These are precious lives destroyed by circumstances beyond their control. 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”.
Ghana’s First Lady, HE Lordina Mahama
Children in Conflict Zones
The First Lady observed that children in conflict zones are often the silent victims of war—losing parents, siblings, homes, and dreams while carrying emotional scars that may last a lifetime. She stressed that global leaders must prioritize policies that protect children from such devastating experiences.
“This prayer service is so vital. It is a moment for us to pause, reflect, and seek divine intervention. It is a moment to collectively pray for the wisdom our leaders need to make the right decisions”.
Ghana’s First Lady, HE Lordina Mahama
Citing Proverbs 9:10—“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding”—Mrs. Mahama called on world leaders to embrace divine wisdom in making choices that lead to peace and progress for children everywhere.
She further reminded participants of the biblical foundation for protecting children, referencing Jesus’ words in Matthew 19:14: “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” She also reflected on Matthew 18:3, which highlights the purity and humility of children as a model for believers.
Prayer for Marginalized Children
In an emotional prayer, the First Lady lifted up vulnerable children, particularly the needy and orphaned in Ghana and around the world, asking for God’s protection, provision, and guidance in their lives.
She prayed for their access to essentials such as food, shelter, clothing, and education, and blessed those dedicating their lives to supporting children in need. “Bless those who dedicate their time and resources to care for them. May these children grow in wisdom, strength, and joy, knowing that you love them,” she prayed.
She concluded by reaffirming Ghana’s commitment under President Mahama’s leadership to continue pursuing policies that expand opportunities for children and secure their future.
“In this moment of hope, let us renew our collective commitment. I know that God, the Almighty that we serve, will continue to bless and guide us, and guide my husband, the President of Ghana, to implement policies that protect our children, open opportunities, and prepare them for a good future”.
Ghana’s First Lady, HE Lordina Mahama
Mrs. Mahama’s address placed the protection of children firmly at the heart of the global agenda, reinforcing the importance of combining spiritual devotion with practical action.
Her call for unity, faith, and decisive policy measures echoed the central message of the prayer service: that the well-being of children must remain a priority in a world confronted with conflict, inequality, and uncertainty.
READ ALSO: Ghana Reaffirms Nuclear Energy Commitment at IAEA Conference
