Ghana’s First Lady Calls for Global Unity in Prayer and Action to Protect Vulnerable Children

First Lady, H.E. Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama, delivered a stirring address at the 7th Annual Prayer Service for Children at the Church Centre for the United Nations on Monday, calling for collective action to protect the world’s most vulnerable children.

Speaking at the Tillman Chapel during the 80th UN General Assembly, Mrs. Mahama emphasized the power of unity across nations and cultures in addressing the global crisis affecting children worldwide.

“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,” the First Lady declared to the assembled delegates and faith leaders.

Mrs. Mahama painted a sobering picture of the challenges facing children globally, particularly those caught in armed conflicts. She noted that “hundreds of thousands of children are caught up in armed conflicts” according to UN estimates, with “a significant number of these children in Africa, where they are robbed of their childhood, forced to fight, and go through terrible experiences.”

The First Lady described these as “precious lives, destroyed by circumstances beyond their control,” emphasizing how conflicts devastate young lives: “When conflicts erupt, they are the ones who lose parents, siblings, homes, and dreams, and carry emotional scars that can last a lifetime.”

Drawing from biblical teachings, Mrs. Mahama stressed the importance of spiritual guidance in leadership decisions. Quoting Proverbs 9:10, she reminded the audience that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”

“With divine wisdom, our leaders can follow paths of peace and progress for all children,” she stated, while also referencing her husband President John Mahama’s words: “the challenges facing our children today are immense, but they can be tackled through decisive leadership.”

The First Lady concluded her remarks with a moving prayer for children worldwide:

“Heavenly Father, I lift the needy and orphaned children in Ghana and across the world into your loving care. I ask that you surround them with protection, comfort, and hope for a brighter future. Provide for their daily needs, including food, shelter, clothing, and education. Bless those who dedicate their time and resources to care for them.”

Mrs. Mahama praised this year’s theme, “A Moment of Hope,” calling it “very relevant, particularly as our leaders gather for the 80th UN General Assembly at a time when the global order is rapidly changing.”

She emphasized that “this prayer service is so vital” as “a moment for us to pause, reflect, and seek divine intervention” and “to collectively pray for the wisdom our leaders need to make the right decisions.”

The First Lady also brought greetings from “the good people of Ghana” and her husband, President John Dramani Mahama, while highlighting the work of the Lordina Foundation, “through which we work tirelessly to improve the lives of women and children in Ghana.”

Mrs. Mahama concluded with a renewed call for collective commitment: “In this ‘Moment of Hope,’ let us renew our collective commitment” to ensure God’s continued blessing and guidance for leaders implementing policies that protect children and prepare them for a better future.