The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has expressed deep shock and sorrow following the tragic death of a five-year-old pupil of Mim M/A Basic School in the Asunafo North Municipality of the Ahafo Region.
Reports indicate that the young girl died on the evening of Sunday, 8th November 2026, after a domestic dispute between her parents escalated into violence. The child was allegedly assaulted during the altercation and fell heavily to the ground, subsequently dying shortly after efforts were made to seek medical treatment.
Reacting to the incident, the Ministry issued a stern press statement unreservedly condemning all forms of violence against children, emphasizing that domestic disputes should never endanger the lives of young ones.
“Violence in the home is not a private matter and children must never be used as instruments or victims in disputes between adults,” the statement read. Extending condolences to the family, the school community, and the residents of Mim, the Ministry maintained that “no child should lose their life in a place they ought to be safest”.
The Ministry noted that the Ghana Police Service has commenced investigations into the matter, confirming that a suspect is currently in custody and assisting officers with their enquiries. Commending the Ahafo Regional Police Command for its swift action, the Ministry urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent, and speedy investigation. It demanded that anyone found culpable be fully prosecuted under the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), the Domestic Violence Act (Act 732), and the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
Addressing disturbing reports surrounding the immediate aftermath of the assault, the Ministry revealed that it has taken note of allegations that a health facility in Mim refused to treat the dying child. Welcoming a separate probe into the claims, MoGCSP called on relevant health regulatory authorities to examine the incident thoroughly.
“Every child in a medical emergency is entitled to immediate, life-saving care and any lapse must be addressed,” the Ministry insisted.
Outlining its operational response, the Ministry announced that it is working through the Department of Social Welfare and the Domestic Violence Secretariat to monitor the case closely alongside the Police and the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU). Social welfare officers have been deployed to the Asunafo North Municipality to provide psychosocial support to the bereaved family and assess the safety and well-being of any other children residing in the household. Additionally, the Ministry is collaborating with the Municipal Assembly, the Ghana Education Service, and local community leaders in Mim to deliver necessary counselling support.
The Ministry appealed to teachers, religious figures, traditional leaders, and the general public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases of child abuse immediately to the police, DOVVSU, or Social Welfare offices. Members of the public can also reach out through the Orange Support Centre toll-free line on 0800-111-222, the DOVVSU hotline on 055 1000 900, police emergency lines on 191 or 18555, or via the Domestic Violence Secretariat WhatsApp line on 0551757575.
Concluding the statement, the Ministry urged the public and media houses to respect the privacy and dignity of the deceased child and her family by refraining from circulating images or unverified details that could worsen distress or prejudice ongoing legal investigations.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
