The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in Ghana has issued a warning to individuals who perpetrate violence against women and children, stating they will be held accountable under the law. This warning comes after videos and images circulated on social media, reportedly involving actress and fashion personality Nana Akua Addo and her child. The footage appears to show Ms. Addo with visible injuries and a child being subjected to physical violence.
The Ministry has expressed deep concern over the images and reports, emphasizing that violence in all its forms must not be normalized, excused, or tolerated. In a statement released on October 6, the Ministry reiterated its commitment to protecting the dignity, safety, and wellbeing of women and children. According to the Ministry, the Domestic Violence Act, 2007 (Act 732), and the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), provide legal frameworks for the protection of persons from domestic violence and the welfare of children.
The Ministry is working closely with relevant institutions to ascertain the wellbeing and safety of those involved and determine necessary interventions. The Minister, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has sent a strong message to perpetrators of violence, stating that such acts have no place in society. The Ministry has also urged women and other persons experiencing domestic, gender-based, or other forms of violence not to suffer in silence or accept abuse as a normal part of any relationship.
The Ministry has encouraged victims and anyone with credible information about a person at risk to report incidents to the nearest police station or Social Welfare office. Additionally, the Ministry has appealed to the public to refrain from sharing graphic videos, personal information, and unverified claims concerning Ms. Addo and her child. This appeal aims to prevent further exposure and distress to those involved, particularly the child.
Ms. Addo's legal representatives have also requested that media organizations and the public stop publishing or sharing the videos, especially footage involving a minor. Her lawyers stated that the matter is before the appropriate authorities and urged the media to respect the family's privacy. The Ministry remains committed to working with relevant institutions to ensure that persons affected by violence receive necessary protection, care, and support.
The public's concern surrounding the reports is understandable; however, the Ministry stresses that continued circulation of the material could exacerbate the situation. The Ministry's efforts aim to prevent violence and provide support to victims. Key legislation, including the Domestic Violence Act and the Children’s Act, underscores the government's commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.
The Gender Ministry's statement serves as a reminder that abuse is never the fault of the victim and that silence only emboldens perpetrators. By speaking out against violence and providing support to victims, the Ministry aims to create a safer environment for women and children in Ghana. The Ministry's actions demonstrate its dedication to upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals.
Key points
- The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection warns perpetrators of violence against women and children will be held accountable under the law.
- The Domestic Violence Act, 2007 (Act 732), and the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), provide legal frameworks for protection.
- The Ministry encourages victims to report incidents to the nearest police station or Social Welfare office.
