The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP), in collaboration with Expertise France and the European Union, has commissioned a transit shelter for victims of human trafficking in Aflao, Volta Region.
The transit shelter aims to enhance the identification, protection and care of human trafficking victims.
The inauguration marked the official closure of the Regional Project to support the fight against human trafficking in the States of the Gulf of Guinea of which Ghana is part.
Speaking at the event, the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Madam Dakoa Newman, said rescuing victims was a crucial component of the comprehensive strategy to counter human trafficking.
She hinted that as of 2023, the ministry has rescued 1,089 victims, which includes 577 boys, 97 girls, 160 women, and 255 men.
She added that each rescue operation was designed to remove individuals from exploitative situations.
“All potential human trafficking cases identified must be reported immediately so that assistance can be provided,” she said.
She expressed the ministry’s gratitude to the European Union, Expertise France, and all stakeholders who contributed to the project’s implementation.
On her part, the Chief Director of the Ministry, Dr Afisah Zakariah, urged security officials, especially those in Aflao to be vigilant, arrest and prosecute persons suspected of being involved in human trafficking.
The Head of Governance and Security Sector at the EU Delegation to Ghana, Madam Anna Lixi, stated that human trafficking, a form of modern slavery, was a grave violation of human rights that strips individuals of their freedom, dignity and future.
She emphasised the European Union’s concern with the phenomenon along the Gulf of Guinea and their readiness to continue partnering with the ministry and other stakeholders to combat the menace.
She reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting the Government of Ghana in fighting human trafficking in all forms.
Mr Alessandro Rabbiosi, Project Director at Expertise France, stated that the inauguration of the shelter marks an important milestone that will serve as a sanctuary for survivors, adding it was a place where they will receive comprehensive support to rebuild their lives, reclaim their strength, and restore their sense of self.
Grace Acheampong, ISD
