A recent oversight visit by Parliament’s Gender, Children, and Social Welfare Committee has revealed alarming conditions at the Osu Children’s Home, where chronic underfunding, caregiver shortages, and inadequate infrastructure threaten the well-being of over 130 vulnerable children.
The facility, which has served as a refuge for orphans and at-risk children since 1962, is now in urgent need of intervention. According to Mr. Reindolf Dartey, Supervisor of the home, the government’s annual funding allocation of GH₵16,000 — unchanged from last year — is woefully insufficient to meet the weekly GH₵5,000 required to cater to the needs of the children.
Among the residents are children with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and hydrocephalus, whose care demands specialized attention and facilities that the home currently lacks. “The resources are not enough, and we’re losing caregivers due to the financial strain,” Mr. Dartey explained to the committee.
Despite a staffing complement of 98 — including government workers, casual laborers, and caregivers — the home is struggling to retain skilled personnel, directly affecting service delivery.
Chairperson of the Committee, Rev. Helen Adjoa Ntoso, expressed concern over the funding gap and pledged the Committee’s commitment to advocate for increased financial support. “Specialized care and facilities are essential, and we will push to ensure the necessary resources are allocated,” said the MP for Krachi West.
Mr. Dartey emphasized the need for regional facilities tailored to children with mental health conditions and disabilities and appealed to both government and philanthropic organizations for urgent support. “Our successes show what’s possible — some of our children are now in university and thriving — but we can’t continue this work without more help,” he added.
The Committee’s visit is expected to influence future budgetary decisions and strengthen policy advocacy around child welfare services in Ghana.
