An initiative aimed at addressing the emotional and mental health needs of boys, popular online journalist and youth empowerment activist, Kobby Kyei has launched the “Boys Lives Matter” campaign.
This campaign seeks to empower boys who often feel overlooked in conversations about youth development, particularly in light of the ongoing focus on girls’ empowerment.
During an interview on Joy Prime TV, Kobby shared his motivation for starting this campaign after noticing a significant gap in support for boys. “While empowering girls is essential, we must not leave the boy child behind,” he stated.
“Boys are often reluctant to share their struggles due to fear of judgment, and it’s crucial that we create safe spaces for them to express their emotions.”
The campaign gained traction after Kobby met Solomon, a victim of the June 3rd disaster who has faced immense challenges in his young life.
Solomon was found begging on the streets, struggling to survive after suffering severe burns from a fire when he was just six years old. His story resonated with many, prompting an outpouring of support from the community.
Kobby and his team produced a documentary highlighting Solomon’s journey, which quickly went viral on social media.
The response was overwhelming, with many Ghanaians reaching out to offer financial assistance. Just yesterday, representatives from the National Youth Authority and the National Entrepreneurship Innovation Authority contacted Kobby to provide additional support for Solomon.
In a remarkable turn of events, Solomon has been gifted a brand-new tiling machine and enrolled in an apprenticeship program under the mentorship of a master craftsman.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by the John Dramani Mahama government to empower youth through skill development programs.
“Solomon’s resilience is inspiring,” said Kobby. “We are committed to not only helping him but also raising awareness about the struggles faced by many vulnerable boys in our communities.”
As the campaign continues to gain momentum, Kobby hopes to reach more boys across Ghana, encouraging them to share their stories and seek help without fear of stigma. The “Boys Lives Matter” initiative stands as a testament to the power of community support and compassion in transforming lives.
