The Street Children Empowerment Foundation (SCEF) has expressed grave concerns about the rising cases of defilement and sexual violence against vulnerable girls in Ghana, especially those living in street situations.
According to the organization the recent court case of James Armah, also known as Colours, highlights the challenges faced by young victims and the barriers that prevent them from accessing justice.
In a press statement, SCEF, explained that a recent case involving the sexual abuse of a 12-year-old girl, who’s identity will not be disclosed. The victim who lives with her family at Timber Market, Accra, was allegedly sexually abused by James Armah, a neighbor, who gave her money in exchange.
“The girl was repeatedly abused, and the abuse only came to light after neighbors raised suspicions and reported the matter to the victim’s family, who then reported it to the Police DOVVSU/AR in the company of SCEF,” the statement noted.
According to the statement, despite the efforts of SCEF and other organizations to protect children and young people, many girls continue to suffer in silence as their rights are violated, and they are denied access to justice because of various factors, including doubts about the victim’s age, limited knowledge about available legal remedies, and the stigma associated with reporting sexual abuse.
The statement therefore asserts that the case of James Armah is a reminder that society must do more to protect children and young people from sexual abuse.
“We call on all key stakeholders – government agencies, NGOs, civil society organizations, the media, and the public – to work together to remove the barriers that prevent victims from accessing justice. This includes providing more information and support to victims and witnesses, adequate funding for legal aid, and improving court facts gathering to enhance the justice system,” the statement added.
It insists that the recent statistics indicate that defilement cases are on the rise, a trend that must be reversed and as advocates for the rights of vulnerable children and young people, SCEF will continue to work tirelessly to promote child safeguarding and demand justice for young victims of sexual violence.
In the statement, SCEF was also impressed with the performance of the judge assigned to the case, Her Ladyship Christiana Cann for being fair and firm.
“We want to thank Her Ladyship Christiana Cann for delivering a strong, fair and just verdict of 12 years imprisonment with hard labour to James for this unspeakable act,” the statement said.
SCEF concluded with a call on the general public to offer support in cash or kind to ensure that the victim and her family receive the support they need.