Children's Ministry Around the World - Ghana, Africa

As we continue to look at Children's Ministry and the lives of children from around the world, today we "journey" to Ghana.

Geographically, Ghana, a country of 26.6 million people, is closer than any other country to the center of our planet (World Population Review). Ghana is one of the world's largest gold and diamond producers, is the largest producer of cocoa in the world as of 2015 and is one of only five countries in Africa with a free press (Wiki). Forbes says Ghana is the 11^th friendliest country in the world.

School is free and mandatory in Ghana and as children reach high school, they may either study to prepare for college or to enter tech schools and learn a trade. Approximately 95% of children in Ghana attend school, which is one of the highest enrollment rates in Africa (Wiki). However; even though school is free, if a family can not afford the costs associated with school, they will only send some of their children; in most cases, this means the boys will go to school and the girls will work at home or as domestic servants for other families (humanium.org).

Life for children in Ghana is not without its challenges; including health issues with AIDS/HIV rates which are very high, as well as high rates of malaria, polio, TB and diarrhea (UNICEF) and concerns which come with Ghana being a major hub for cocaine from South America and heroine from Asia (CIA World FactBook). Child trafficking, child marriage and child labor are all problems which face children and families in Ghana; one third of the children in Ghana end up working, most on cocoa plantations (humanium.org). To help reach the children and families who are dealing with these things, literacy programs, learning skills and providing food and medical care are all ways to connect with and help children and families in need (Compassion).

Ghana has freedom of religion and according to the CIA/2010 Census; 71.2% of the people are Christian (Pentecostal/Charismatic 28.3%, Protestant 18.4%, Catholic 13.1%, other 11.4%), 17.6% are Muslim, 5.2% follow traditional religions, 0.8% follow other religions and 5.2% say they are not affiliated with any religion. Churches in Ghana do have ministry to children and offer opportunities such as Sunday school, training for girls and boys, camp and Vacation Bible School; much as we do here in the USA.

As you think about Ghana, where 18% of the people are unreached (OperationWorld), please pray for –.

• God to draw believers to Him.
• People to help children who are in dangerous places and point them to Jesus.
• Laborers to go and serve children who are in need.
• Children to see God is real, He loves them and they can know Him!
• Wisdom to know where to plant churches.
• The church in Ghana to grow and be able to be a light to their communities!

Ghana is a beautiful country with children and families who need to know God loves them! While you may not be able to travel to Ghana to serve the church, you can pray and, “When a believing person prays, great things happen.” (James 5:16 NCV) Let’s pray and trust God for great things in Ghana!