Freda Prempeh calls for tougher action against child abuse, says “Children are national, not family assets”

Dr Freda Prempeh, a former Deputy Minister of Gender and Social Protection

Dr Freda Prempeh, a former Deputy Minister of Gender and Social Protection, has urged stronger action to protect children from abuse, exploitation and neglect, emphasizing that “children are national and not family assets.”

Speaking to the media in Duayaw-Nkwanta on Thursday, Dr Prempeh condemned child abuse as one of the worst forms of human rights violations and called for a collective commitment to uphold the dignity and rights of every child.

Her comments come in response to a disturbing viral video showing a young child being subjected to brutal and inhumane treatment.

Dr Prempeh, who is also the Founder of the Ultimate Women Foundation (UWF), said her organisation is deeply concerned about the growing trend of violence and abuse against children, particularly in deprived communities.

UWF is a women and girls-focused non-governmental organisation dedicated to helping vulnerable and indigenous women and girls realise their worth and potential, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and society at large.

“In fact, many boys, girls and aged women go through those inhumane emotional and physical assaults, especially in deprived communities clandestinely,” she said.

Dr Prempeh stressed that public support is essential in addressing the issue, noting that law enforcement and child protection agencies cannot succeed without information from community members.

She called on Ghanaians to report cases of abuse and mistreatment, especially those that occur at the local level.

“If we remain sensitive, we identify children, especially girls who suffered worst forms of abuse, including sexual exploitation at the community levels,” she said.

Dr Prempeh added: “the law must also punish culprits of child rights violation severely to uphold and defend the dignity and fundamental human rights of children.”