Child protection advocates are mounting pressure on government to commit more resources to safeguarding vulnerable children, warning that weak funding and poor coordination continue to leave many at risk of abuse across Ghana.
The call emerged at the end of a three-day National Advocacy and Child Protection Workshop organised by SOS Children’s Villages Ghana in partnership with World Vision Ghana, Plan International Ghana and International Justice Mission Ghana.
Stakeholders said Ghana has several child protection laws in place, but weak implementation continues to expose children to abuse, trafficking, labour exploitation and violence.
Ms Gloria Emeka, National Advocacy Advisor at SOS Children’s Villages Ghana, said repeated reports of child abuse in the media show a troubling gap between existing policies and realities on the ground.
She explained that although her organisation, with support from the Norwegian Government, is working with the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development to protect children at risk of losing parental care, challenges remain in reporting abuse and resolving cases.
Participants at the workshop raised concerns over child trafficking, violence, online abuse, child labour, and children in conflict with the law.
Mr Gregory Derry of World Vision Ghana said poor coordination among institutions remains a major challenge despite government’s efforts to promote children’s rights.
He called for stronger collaboration and urged government to commit adequate resources to child protection initiatives.
Stakeholders also proposed the creation of one-stop centres where child abuse victims can access all support services without being subjected to repeated interviews and processes that could deepen trauma.
Mr Ishmeal Nana Asamoah, District Chief Executive for Ekumfi District, backed calls for dedicated funding and suggested that part of the District Assemblies Common Fund be reserved to support vulnerable children.
International Justice Mission Ghana said the broader goal of the workshop was to push for stronger systems reform and ensure institutions work together more effectively.
Stakeholders also renewed calls for the passage of the Social Workers Bill and strengthening of the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development.
They stressed that protecting children must remain a national priority backed by sustained political commitment, proper funding and accountability.
