Human Trafficking Board urges sustained action to protect Ghana’s Tier 1 status

The Human Trafficking Management Board has called for stronger collaboration and sustained action to protect Ghana’s Tier 1 status in the 2026 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, warning against complacency in the fight against human trafficking.

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, made the call at the Board’s third-quarter meeting, where members reviewed the activities of the Human Trafficking Secretariat, assessed ongoing interventions and discussed priorities for 2027.

She described Ghana’s elevation to Tier 1 as a significant national achievement and commended government institutions, development partners and other stakeholders whose collective efforts contributed to the recognition.

However, she cautioned that the achievement came with greater responsibility, stressing that Ghana could not afford to become complacent or lose sight of the work required to sustain the status.

Dr Lartey urged stakeholders to remain committed to coordinated interventions in prevention, survivor care and prosecution, while responding effectively to emerging threats. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to leading efforts to maintain the country’s standing through stronger partnerships and decisive action.

The Minister also thanked Board members for their commitment, active participation and continued support for the Ministry’s efforts, particularly their contributions to advancing Ghana’s anti-trafficking agenda.

At the meeting, the Director of the Human Trafficking Secretariat, Abena Annobea Asare, presented an update on the Secretariat’s activities, highlighting ongoing interventions and areas requiring further attention.

Members discussed the status of the adult shelter, planned capacity-building programmes and funding requirements, with particular attention to addressing resource gaps that could affect the implementation of planned activities.

The Board also reviewed the inception report for the National Plan of Action for the Elimination of Human Trafficking in Ghana, presented by a consultant. Members provided input on the proposed approach, particularly the planned fieldwork and data collection process.

Preparations for the Board’s 2027 Annual Work Plan also featured prominently, with discussions focusing on key priorities and activities to guide its work in the coming year.

The Human Trafficking Management Board provides strategic direction and oversight for Ghana’s response to human trafficking. It brings together relevant institutions and stakeholders to coordinate efforts to prevent trafficking, protect and rehabilitate victims, strengthen investigations and prosecutions, and address challenges associated with the crime.