Ghana makes significant strides in fight against human trafficking through successful EU partnership

In a significant development, Ms. Abena Annobia Asare, Head of Ghana's Human Trafficking Secretariat, under the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has shared the nation's strides in combatting human trafficking.

With 258 victims rescued and cared for, and 42 cases prosecuted, Ghana has surpassed its rescue targets, thanks to a robust partnership funded by the European Union (EU) and executed by Expertise France.

The initiative, which commenced in 2019 and persevered through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, has yielded tangible results. Other notable achievements include the construction of a transit shelter in Alfao to accommodate victims and the facilitation of training workshops for law enforcement agencies.

Additionally, engagement with other related stakeholders in the fight against human trafficking and the establishment of a comprehensive HT Secretariat to enhance support mechanisms for victims and the general public.

Ms. Asare highlighted the project's exceptional performance, exceeding the initial target of caring for 50 victims. This success underscores the efficacy of collaborative efforts in addressing complex social issues.

"Within the project, we had a target of 50 victims to be cared for but we ended up with 258 victims who were cared for through the partnership. Project specific we had a target of rescuing victims of 50 but we ended up with 258 which means we exceeded our target. In terms of prosecution in 2022, 22 cases of human trafficking were prosecuted, child labor-related issues were about 10 and other 10 cases summing up to 42 cases," Abena Annobia Asare stated.

She disclosed this at the official close ceremony of the project of support to the fight against human trafficking in the states of the Gulf of Guinea-Ghana on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at Alisa Hotel, Tema.

Anna Lixi, Head of the Governance and Security Sector at the EU Delegation to Ghana, commended the collective commitment of stakeholders, including governmental bodies, specialized units, and Civil Society Organizations.

The EU's partnership strategy emphasizes sustainable approaches to combat human trafficking and foster regional cooperation in the Fight Against Human Trafficking in the Gulf of Guinea implemented in six countries including Ghana.

Anna Lixi emphasized the importance of bolstering national systems and capacities to ensure long-term success in combating human trafficking.

The project, "Support the Fight Against Human Trafficking in the Gulf of Guinea," aligns with broader EU objectives to address migration challenges comprehensively.

"As the EU's Emergency Trust Fund for Africa gradually closes, initiatives like these pave the way for a more resilient response to migration dynamics. The transition towards the Neighbourhood, Development, and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) reflects the EU's evolving approach to migration governance, prioritizing sustainable solutions and strengthening governmental ownership," Anna Lixi stated.

The fight against human trafficking remains a pressing global concern, stripping individuals of their dignity and freedom. Ghana's success story serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative power of collaborative partnerships and concerted efforts. It underscores the imperative for continued cooperation and investment in initiatives that uphold human rights and combat exploitation.

In conclusion, Ghana's progress in combatting human trafficking exemplifies the positive impact of international collaboration and targeted interventions. By exceeding targets and fostering partnerships, the nation is forging a path toward a future free from the scourge of human trafficking.