Report By: Ishmael Barfi
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has officially launched two new initiatives aimed at strengthening social protection in Ghana.
The Domestic Violence Management Board and the National Council on Persons with Disabilities have been established to address critical issues affecting vulnerable populations in the country.
The Minister highlighted the alarming prevalence of domestic violence in Ghana, where one in every three women experiences physical or sexual abuse. She emphasized that research continues to link intimate partner violence to the socio-economic marginalization of women.
To combat this issue, the Minister charged the 12-member Domestic Violence Management Board to adopt a multi-sectoral approach.
This approach will involve collaboration with state agencies and civil society organizations to enhance rehabilitation and reintegration services for victims.
The Minister’s commitment to addressing domestic violence is evident in her call to action.
She urged the board to work diligently to protect the rights of women and children and to ensure that victims receive the support they need to rebuild their lives.
On the issue of disability welfare, Hon. Lartey cited the 2021 Population and Housing Census conducted by the Ghana Statistical Service. According to the census, approximately 8% of Ghana’s 30.8 million population lives with a disability.
This represents a significant proportion of the population, and the Minister emphasized the need for inclusive policies and programs that enable persons with disabilities to actively participate in national development.
The Minister called on the 12-member National Council on Persons with Disabilities to ensure the full implementation of inclusive policies and programs.
The Council will play a key role in coordinating disability-related activities, advising the Ministry on emerging issues, and mobilizing resources to achieve its mandate.
The launch of these two initiatives marks a new era of social protection in Ghana.
The Minister’s commitment to addressing domestic violence and promoting disability welfare is a step in the right direction.
By working together, these boards can make a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable populations in Ghana.
The Minister concluded by urging both boards to work collaboratively to achieve their mandates.
She emphasized the importance of diligence and commitment in addressing these critical issues and ensuring that all Ghanaians have the opportunity to thrive.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
