Urgent Action Needed to Protect Vulnerable Populations in Ghana

Ghana is grappling with rising cases of child abuse, with a shocking 22% of children aged 1 to 14 experiencing violent discipline, according to the 2023 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. National Democratic Congress MP for Salaga South, Madam Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah, has called for urgent action to protect the rights of vulnerable populations, including children. Her call to action was prompted by a disturbing video of a 12-year-old child being brutally beaten by three adults, highlighting the need for swift and decisive action.

Key Takeaways:

• Madam Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah, MP for Salaga South, has called for urgent action to protect the rights of vulnerable populations, particularly children, citing a 22% prevalence of violent discipline among children aged 1 to 14.
• The 2023 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey revealed that physical, emotional, and sexual abuse of children occur with alarming frequency.
• Madam Ibrahimah proposed nationwide campaigns to educate communities on the rights of children and vulnerable groups, promote a culture of zero tolerance for abuse, and encourage reporting of violations.
• The MP also called for the strengthening of legal frameworks and enforcement of existing laws to combat child abuse.
• Madam Ibrahimah emphasized the importance of lawmakers and custodians of human rights intensifying efforts to address pressing issues, including child abuse.
• The Ghana Police Service has been commended for their swift response to reports of child abuse.

Statistics:

• 22% of children aged 1 to 14 experience violent discipline in Ghana, according to the 2023 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey.
• The prevalence of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse of children in Ghana is a pressing concern.
• The Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey did not provide further breakdown of the statistics regarding child abuse.
• Ghana's national framework and existing laws on domestic violence, human rights and child abuse were not adequately detailed in the piece.

Sources:

• Ghana News Agency, "MP calls for urgent action to protect vulnerable populations in Ghana" (22 July 2025)
• 2023 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, statistics regarding child abuse