Gender Ministry Warns Against Violence Against Women and Children
The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has warned perpetrators of violence against women and children following the circulation of videos and images on social media involving fashion designer Nana Akua Addo and her child.
In a statement issued on October 6, the Ministry said some of the footage appeared to show a physical altercation involving Ms Addo, with visible injuries, while separate footage allegedly showed a child being subjected to physical violence.
The Ministry expressed concern over the disturbing images and reports, stressing that violence in all forms is unacceptable and must not be normalised, excused or tolerated.
It noted that the Domestic Violence Act, 2007 (Act 732), provides a legal framework for protecting persons from domestic violence, while the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), provides for the protection and welfare of children.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant institutions to protect women and children from violence, abuse and other forms of harm.
While investigations are ongoing to establish the full facts and circumstances surrounding the reported incidents, the Ministry said it is closely monitoring developments and taking steps to ascertain the safety and well-being of those involved.
It also issued a strong warning to persons who perpetrate violence against women, children or any other individual, saying such acts have no place in society.
According to the Ministry, perpetrators will be held accountable in accordance with the law, adding that no relationship, domestic circumstance, disagreement or perceived provocation can justify violence or abuse.
The Ministry encouraged women and other persons experiencing domestic, gender-based or other forms of violence not to suffer in silence or accept abuse as normal.
It stressed that victims are never responsible for the abuse they suffer and urged anyone with credible information about a person at risk to report to the nearest police station or Social Welfare office.
Victims and the public can also contact the Ministry through the Domestic Violence Secretariat Call Centre on 0800-111-222, WhatsApp on 055 175 7575, or the Helpline of Hope Call Centre on 0800-800-800 or 0800-900-900.
The Ministry further urged the public to stop sharing graphic videos, personal information and unverified claims concerning the woman and child.
It said although public concern over the reports is understandable, continued circulation of such material could further expose and distress those involved, particularly the child.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the dignity, safety and well-being of women and children and said it would continue working with relevant institutions to ensure that persons affected by violence receive the necessary protection, care and support.
By Esther Padmore Amonoo
