Ghana has made notable progress in its fight against human trafficking, especially in the last ten years, as it celebrates 20 years since the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694) was enacted.
During a media event for the World Day Against Human Trafficking, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection highlighted important achievements, such as the establishment of support systems for survivors, improved training for law enforcement, and better cooperation with civil society groups.
Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, spoke at the Accra City Hotel on June 24, stating that Ghana has made “meaningful strides” in fighting trafficking, with significant efforts in prevention, prosecution, protection, and partnership.
The Minister, whose speech was delivered by the Chief Director of the Ministry, Dr. Afisah Zackaria, noted that the establishment of shelters for adults and children, along with transit shelters for victims, is a key accomplishment.
These shelters provide trauma-informed care, psychosocial support, and act as temporary residences for rescued victims, many of whom are crucial witnesses in ongoing legal cases.
Another important achievement is Ghana’s Tier 2 ranking in the U.S. Department of State’s 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report.
This ranking reflects Ghana’s enhanced efforts in law enforcement, victim support, and public awareness, although there is still more to be done to fully comply with international standards.
The minister stressed that Ghana’s approach is supported by a strategic national framework—the Human Trafficking National Plan of Action (2022–2026). This detailed document lays out the government’s strategy for tackling trafficking through four key areas: Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership.
This year’s local theme, “The Human Trafficking Law @ 20: The Journey So Far in Ghana”, serves as a moment to reflect on both the progress achieved and the areas needing more action.
It corresponds with the global theme for the 2025 World Day Against Trafficking in Persons: “Reach every victim of trafficking, leave no one behind.”
Despite advancements, the Minister acknowledged several ongoing issues. A major concern is the absence of dedicated shelters for adult male victims, an area that remains underfunded even as awareness grows that men are also trafficked for forced labor, particularly in construction and agriculture.
Lartey also pointed out that Ghanaian youth—especially women—are still being targeted by trafficking networks.
“These criminal groups entice victims with false promises of jobs abroad, only to expose them to sexual abuse, forced labor, starvation, and trauma once they arrive, especially in parts of the Middle East,” she stated.
She expressed sorrow that some victims who tried to migrate irregularly through the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea have ended up dead, stranded, or mentally shattered.
“We have seen videos and read reports of our brothers and sisters dying in boats, washed ashore, or trapped in unknown countries,” she remarked with sadness.
The Minister urged all stakeholders—including traditional leaders, law enforcement, civil society organizations, and the media—to enhance awareness efforts and support for victims.
She emphasized the importance of not criminalizing survivors who may return under challenging conditions or through deportation.
Experts at the event, including Professor Leander and other trafficking researchers, reiterated that human trafficking is now the second most lucrative global illicit trade after firearms, even surpassing drug trafficking in some areas.
Estimated to exceed $30 billion annually, this illegal industry continues to thrive on poverty, weak regulations, and limited cross-border cooperation.
Stakeholders agree that poverty and the quest for better economic opportunities are the main reasons why Ghanaians choose risky travel options, often without realizing the dangers.
Many think that only a comprehensive approach—covering education, youth employment, community support, and stricter regulations—can truly address the issue.
In her final comments, Dr. Lartey reminded Ghanaians that human trafficking is not just a distant threat but a real and immediate danger that requires collective awareness and bravery.
“Let this not be just another commemoration. Let it be a renewed commitment—to protect the vulnerable, to hold the guilty accountable, and to safeguard the future,” she urged.
As Ghana gets ready for the global observance on July 30, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to implement policies and partnerships that ensure no one is overlooked, no one is exploited, and no one is left behind.
By Philip Antoh