ActionAid Ghana Demands Robust Systems to Shield Girls from Sexual Abuse

By Anthony Adongo Apubeo, GNA Bolgatanga, Nov. 20, GNA – ActionAid Ghana, an NGO, has urged for more robust and unified protection mechanism...

By Anthony Adongo Apubeo, GNA

Bolgatanga, Nov. 20, GNA – ActionAid Ghana, an NGO, has urged for more robust and unified protection mechanisms to protect children, particularly girls, from sexual abuse, exploitation, and teenage pregnancies, which are increasing throughout the nation.

Mr. Akuka Yakubu, the Upper East Regional Programme Manager at ActionAid Ghana, who issued the statement, emphasized that sexual abuse and exploitation are especially concerning in the Upper East Region, where rates of teenage pregnancy and sexual exploitation keep rising.

He called the situation concerning, referencing information from the Ghana Health Service, which reported 2,436 cases of teenage pregnancies, including 25 instances involving girls between the ages of 10 and 14 in the Upper East Region during just the first five months of 2025.

"These figures are more than just numbers; they serve as a clear indication that there is an issue in some area. Each case involves a girl whose dignity, future, and right to physical autonomy have been compromised," he stated.

At a Regional Stakeholders Dialogue held in Bolgatanga to commemorate the World Day for the Prevention and Healing from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence, Mr. Yakubu stated that the extent of sexual offenses against girls requires immediate and collaborative efforts based on responsibility and safeguarding survivors.

The discussion took place on the topic: "Combating Sexual Abuse and Teenage Pregnancies via Joint Efforts," and gathered participants from state child protection agencies, gender and human rights organizations, and young students from schools.

Mr. Yakubu pointed out that even with the efforts of involved parties, incidents of abuse and sexual violation continued to be high, with numerous cases probably not reported because of social stigma, fear, and inadequate reporting systems.

He emphasized the importance of a strong, integrated response system that connects schools, the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU), Social Welfare, healthcare centers, and local community groups to guarantee that survivors get "prompt, respectful, and expert assistance."

"We need to substitute immunity with responsibility. Safeguarding children is essential, regardless of whether the offender is a teacher, another student, or a member of the community," he added.

The Manager of the Regional Program highlighted ActionAid's feminist and human rights perspective, focusing on girls' control over their bodies and the development of safer, more empowering spaces for young women.

He cited a recent ActionAid report, indicating that 44 percent of young women interviewed in three areas had encountered sexually directed behavior in their work environment.

Mr. Yakubu advocated for thorough sex education based on rights and mutual agreement, funding for secure environments for girls, improved guidance and support systems in schools, and grassroots initiatives to break the silence surrounding sexual abuse.

Ms. Dora Kulariba, the Adolescent Focus Officer for the Upper East Region at the Ghana Health Service, mentioned that the region documented 4,540 pregnancies between January and October of this year and urged immediate measures to address the increasing trend.

Mr. Abdulai Jaladeen, the Upper East Regional Director of the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), stated that the difference between the laws governing marriage and sexual consent, which set the ages at 16 and 18 respectively, was a key contributor to numerous issues affecting adolescent girls.

As a result, he once again urged the government to implement measures aimed at bridging the two age groups, thereby reinforcing the legal frameworks to combat those responsible for sexual abuse and exploitation.

In a statement delivered on his behalf, Mr. Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Minister for the Upper East Region, emphasized that the area's progress is hindered as long as children, particularly girls, are subjected to mistreatment and abuse.

He urged all involved parties to take joint action in order to establish a secure setting where every child can flourish and discover their abilities without obstacles.

GNA

Edited by Caesar Abagali/Christian Akorlie

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).