For communities to thrive and experience true transformation, every gender must come to a full understanding of their identity, purpose, and potential. Children—whether boys or girls—are divine gifts, each carrying unique treasures that contribute to the development of their communities.
Every child, regardless of gender, has a vital role to play in community advancement. When communities overlook or neglect any group of children, they hinder progress in various aspects of development, ultimately affecting the entire community.
This is why we must not show partiality in raising our children. Valuing both boys and girls equally is crucial. When we fail to nurture the boy child and he deviates from God’s ordained purpose, he may become a burden—not only to himself but also to those around him. This, in turn, affects the well-being of the entire community.
The boy child is like a seed planted in the soil of the community. With intentional nurturing and care, we can prevent deviant behaviors, build strong marital foundations, unlock human potential, and raise leaders for every sector of the nation.
Therefore, every stakeholder in community development must take a keen interest in raising the boy child. Strategies should be developed to help bring out the best in these children. Even when they falter, do not let their mistakes distract you from your responsibility to guide and develop them. Remember, you are placed in their lives to teach, mentor, comfort, and correct—in love.
Do not be a burden to them. Instead, be their burden-lifter through wise and compassionate mentorship.
To parents: Be open and present in your boy child’s life. Engage him, even in his silence—you never know the battles he may be facing internally. He needs your attention, especially during his formative years. Never forget: YOU ARE HIS FIRST MENTOR.
Failing to provide this guidance may push him to seek direction elsewhere—sometimes in harmful places.
Lastly, don’t be stingy with your love, time, and resources. Meet his needs, just as you would for any other child—whether yours by blood or part of your wider community.
Together, let’s transform the boy child and, through him, transform our communities.
Thank you!
Written by Elder Tonnie Baffoe (Agona Swedru Area SOM Coordinator)
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