Nana Afua Dufie I, Osafohemaa of the Dodi Traditional Area in the Kadjebi District of the Oti Region, has urged the youth, particularly girls, to celebrate Valentine’s Day by embracing genuine love and self-respect rather than engaging in premarital sex.

She said Valentine’s Day, observed globally on February 14, was instituted to promote love, compassion and kindness—not immoral behaviour.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency at Dodi-Papase, Nana Dufie expressed concern about what she described as the increasing misinterpretation of the occasion as a “sex day,” especially among young people.

“Valentine’s Day is about showing love—sharing, caring and appreciating those who matter in our lives. It is not a day meant for sexual activities,” she stressed.

She lamented the rising trend of risky sexual behaviour during the celebration, noting that it exposes young people to teenage pregnancies, unsafe abortions and sexually transmitted infections.

The Osafohemaa called on parents and guardians to take a keen interest in the activities of their children during such festivities and provide proper guidance and moral support.

She also appealed to schools, religious institutions and community leaders to intensify education on the true meaning of love and the importance of responsible behaviour among adolescents.

Nana Dufie advised young girls to value themselves and resist peer pressure, particularly from social media influences that portray Valentine’s Day as a period for exchanging gifts in return for sexual favours.

“True love is patient and respectful. It does not demand sex as proof. We must teach our young people that love can be expressed through kindness, support and positive actions,” she stated.

She encouraged the youth to use the occasion to strengthen family bonds, reconcile differences and extend support to the less privileged in their communities.

Nana Dufie reaffirmed her commitment to championing initiatives that promote the welfare and moral development of young people within and beyond the Dodi Traditional Area.

As Ghana marked the annual celebration, she reiterated her message: “Swipe to love, not sex.”