Human trafficking remains a major concern that requires stronger collaboration among stakeholders to protect vulnerable people, especially women and children.
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, made this statement during the inauguration and swearing-in ceremony of a Technical Working Group tasked with reviewing and developing a new National Plan of Action to eliminate human trafficking in Ghana.
According to the Minister, the current National Plan of Action has provided guidance for implementing activities based on the four key areas of prevention, protection, prosecution and partnership at the national, regional and district levels.
She urged members of the group to ensure that the new plan includes a cross-sector communication strategy supported by clear information, education and communication materials.
“We must ensure that it is disability and child-friendly. It must also contain objectives that enhance knowledge, improve community sensitisation, and strengthen awareness-raising campaigns,” she stated.
Dr Lartey expressed confidence that the new action plan would strengthen collaboration among law enforcement agencies, the Judicial Service, social workers and other stakeholders working to eliminate human trafficking.
The Chief Director of the Ministry and Co-Chairperson of the Technical Working Group, Dr Marian W. A. Kpakpah, called for stronger coordination and commitment in addressing human trafficking in the country.
She noted that the new National Plan of Action would provide direction for improving prevention, protection, prosecution and partnership efforts aimed at eliminating human trafficking.
The Head of the Human Trafficking Secretariat, Madam Abena Annobea, on the other hand, commended UNICEF and other partners for supporting Ghana’s efforts to combat human trafficking.
The members of the Technical Working Group pledged their commitment to supporting the Ministry in developing an inclusive National Action Plan that responds to current realities and promotes the protection and welfare of victims, especially women and children.
The purpose of the Technical Working Group is to provide technical guidance for the review of the current National Plan of Action (2022–2026) and support the development of a new National Plan of Action (2027–2031) for the elimination of human trafficking in the country.
Priscilla Osei-Wusu Nimako, ISD
