Victims of domestic violence in Ghana will soon find refuge as the government through the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection plans to construct shelters across the country to house abused individuals.
This initiative was disclosed by the sector minister, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, during a special engagement with female journalists in Accra. The meeting, convened at the minister’s request, aimed to foster collaboration between the media and the ministry on gender-related issues and to explore the media’s role in advancing women’s rights and protection.
According to Dr. Lartey, the shelters will be established in each region to provide victims of domestic violence with a safe haven where they can rebuild their lives while seeking justice and support. She emphasized that this move aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s broader vision of reducing societal vulnerabilities to the barest minimum and ensuring the safety and empowerment of women and children.
Beyond providing shelter, the initiative will also incorporate psychosocial support, legal assistance and reintegration programs to help victims transition into independent and violence-free lives.
Dr. Lartey also advocated for amendments to the Domestic Violence Act, stressing the need to strengthen the legal framework to provide more comprehensive protection for victims. She urged female journalists to leverage their platforms to challenge harmful cultural norms and practices that perpetuate gender inequality and domestic abuse.
The minister called on the media to be key partners in the fight against domestic violence, highlighting their influence in shaping public discourse and driving policy change.
The female journalists in turn, congratulated Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey on her appointment and assured her of their unwavering support in advancing gender equality and social protection in Ghana.
They acknowledged that this was the first time a minister from the sector had held such a dedicated engagement with female journalists describing it as a promising step toward meaningful change.
They expressed optimism that this initiative signaled a new era of collaboration between the media and the Ministry, paving the way for more impactful policies and advocacy efforts.
Story: Nancy Obimpeh
