The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has strongly condemned the abuse of a six-year-old child at Asamankese, describing the incident as a grave violation of child rights and a failure of basic caregiving responsibility.
In a press statement issued by its Public Affairs Unit, the ministry said it had been alerted to reports that the child was subjected to severe mistreatment after bed-wetting, a condition it emphasized is medically recognized and common among young children. The ministry stressed that bed-wetting is a health and developmental issue that requires care and professional support, not punishment or humiliation.
“No child should ever be punished, harmed or degraded for circumstances beyond their control,” the statement said, adding that such actions amount to abuse and must not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The ministry noted that the incident highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of child protection laws and sustained public education on child development and welfare. It warned that caregivers who subject children to violence or cruelty risk facing the full rigours of the law.
Calling for accountability, the ministry urged relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that justice is served. It also emphasized the importance of prioritizing the physical and psychological well-being of the affected child, including access to appropriate medical and psychosocial support.
The statement further appealed to parents, guardians and institutions to seek professional guidance when dealing with childhood health and developmental challenges, rather than resorting to harmful practices.
“As a society, we must reaffirm our collective responsibility to protect children, speak out against all forms of abuse, and create safe environments where every child can grow and thrive without fear,” the ministry said.
The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of abuse. It urged individuals to use the Domestic Violence Call Centre on 0800-111-222, the Helpline of Hope call centres on 0800-800-800 or 0800-900-900, or to report directly to the nearest police station.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity and well-being of all children across the country, stressing that protecting children is a shared national responsibility.
