17th August 2026

The Sudanese National Human Rights Observatory has published photographs and video footage documenting the recruitment of children into the ranks of the Sudanese army and the brigades and militias affiliated with and loyal to it. The Observatory stated that “the Sudanese army and its allied brigades recruited children in the armed conflict and thrust them into combat operations, in grave violations of children’s rights as well as international humanitarian law.” The Observatory called for an independent and comprehensive investigation and urgent accountability to halt the recruitment of children.  Sudan’s civil war that erupted in the country in mid-April 2023 and ever since children have been impacted as a result of shortages of medical care and food, their being deprived of education, and being forced into the military and thrust into combat positions against their will. The African Centre for Justice and Peace Studies has published an investigation into the continued violations committed by the Sudanese army against civilians, most notably the abduction and forced recruitment of children. It warned of further deterioration in the country, describing what is taking place as “a process of stealing children’s innocence.” 

Loving God, hear our prayers for the children of Sudan.  Be with those who have been forced to flee their homes, are hungry, have no access to medical care, and all who have been forced to  learn how to handle weapons and take life in combat zones.   Forgive those who recruit  children as soldiers and care little for their safety and wellbeing. Comfort their families and all who love them. Bless and guide those who are working to protected the children.  May there be a change in  policy by the armies to prevent children's abduction and forced conscription.  We pray for an end to this violent war.  May the children be able to live in peace and gain an education.  May their experiences turn them against violence and death as a means of solving difference so that the future my be brighter than the past. Jesus' name we pray.  Amen.

WaterAid Ghana has launched a US$150,000 project in the Upper East Region to help communities strengthen their resilience to the growing effects of climate change on water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH).

The FLARE (Financing Locally-led Action for Resilient Ecosystems) initiative will empower women-led groups, local entrepreneurs and community organisations to develop solutions to climate-related WASH challenges. Head of Strategy, Policy and Campaigns at WaterAid Ghana, Ibrahim Musah, said the project would help about 14,000 people in 30 communities. 

Prayer based on Psalm 99

 Lord God you reign supreme.

You are great and exalted over all nations.

Great and awesome is your name!

You are holy and mighty, and you love justice.

You have established equity;

and have done what is right and just.

We praise you, the Lord our God; and worship at your feet!

You answer those who call upon you.

You are a forgiving God.

We praise you the Lord our God,

and worship you,

for the Lord our God is holy!