The Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to shielding women and girls from violence.
Speaking before Parliament, the minister outlined a multi-tiered strategy designed to strengthen legal frameworks and expand survivor support services.
A central pillar of this strategy is the ratification of the African Union Convention on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls.
Minister Lartey stated that the ministry is currently navigating the essential legal and administrative channels to finalise this agreement.
To ensure the convention has broad-based support, she underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement, noting that this move aligns with the government’s broader commitment to human rights, gender equality, and inclusive development.
Domestically, the government is updating its legal toolkit to stay ahead of modern challenges.
On policy revision, she said the 2007 National Policy and Plan of Action on Domestic Violence has been revised while the Domestic Violence Act (Act 732) is currently under review to address emerging trends in abuse.
“The ministry has adapted a comprehensive approach encompassing policy and legal reform, prevention, and survival support services for domestic violence,” Minister Lartey said.
Recognising that protection must reach the heart of the community, the ministry has focused heavily on public spaces. Over 300 market executives have been trained as community paralegals to conduct awareness activities in major hubs, including Agbogloshie, Madina, and Nima.
“These individuals serve as community paralegals and conduct awareness activities in major markets,” Minister Lartey noted.
In streamlining the reporting of abuses, the minister announced the Orange Support Centre, a 24-hour toll-free helpline established in 2021.
“Cases are triaged and referred to appropriate agencies for action,” Minister Lartey added.
The Ministry is also fostering a “coordinated response” to ensure these reports lead to justice and healing.
It will therefore be working closely with key service providers, including the Judiciary, Ghana Health Service and DOVVSU (Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit).
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
