V/R: Gender Ministry inaugurates transit shelter for human trafficking victims in Aflao

The  and Social Protection (MoGCSP), in collaboration with Expertise France, with support from the European Union in Ghana has inaugurated and commissioned a transit shelter for victims of human trafficking in Aflao, Volta Region, on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.

The inauguration marks the official closure of the Regional Project to support the fight against human trafficking in the States of the Gulf of Guinea, of which Ghana is a part.

The transit shelter aims to enhance the identification, protection, and care of human trafficking victims.

Speaking at the event, the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Dakoa Newman, emphasized that rescuing victims is a crucial component of the comprehensive strategy to counter human trafficking.

The Minister disclosed that as of 2023, a total of 1,089 victims were rescued, including 577 boys, 97 girls, 160 women, and 255 men.

According to her, each rescue operation is designed to remove individuals from exploitative situations. “It is imperative that all potential human trafficking cases identified are reported immediately so that assistance can be provided,” she added.

She expressed the Ministry’s gratitude to the European Union, Expertise France, and all stakeholders who contributed to the project’s implementation.

On her part, the Chief Director for the Ministry, Dr. Afisah Zakariah, urged security officials, especially those in Aflao, to be vigilant and to arrest and prosecute persons suspected of being involved in human trafficking.

The Head of Governance and Security Sector at the EU Delegation to Ghana, Madam Anna Lixi, stated that human trafficking, a form of modern slavery, is a grave violation of human rights that strips individuals of their freedom, dignity, and future.

She emphasized the European Union’s concern with the phenomenon along the Gulf of Guinea and their readiness to continue partnering with the Ministry and other stakeholders to combat this menace.

She reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting the Government of Ghana in fighting human trafficking in all its forms.

Alessandro Rabbiosi, Project Director at Expertise France, stated that the inauguration of the shelter marks an important milestone as it will serve as a sanctuary for survivors. adding it is a place where they will receive comprehensive support to rebuild their lives, reclaim their strength, and restore their sense of self.