Working to eliminate Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and other harmful practices has gained more prominence lately, given the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated incidents of SGBV, coupled with the difficulties associated with reporting cases.

Children often fall victims of such acts perpetrated mostly by men, leaving devastating effects on their physical and emotional wellbeing, usually for the rest of their lives, particularly when no quality care is provided.

I joined a discussion on one of Ghana’s radio shows on Asaase Radio 99.5 —Beautiful Minds—hosted by Professor Angela Ofori-Atta, a Clinical Psychologist at the University of Ghana, along with another guest, Dr. Foster Nanewortor, a Consulting Clinical Psychologist at the Ghana Police Hospital. The conversation centered on child sexual abuse.

This should be a concern for all, hence the needed attention to reform laws to deal strongly with perpetrators of sexual violence against children and serve as a deterrent to other culprits.

‘Parents and guardians must pay enough attention to the needs of their children to ensure that they are not at the mercy of abusers who usually bait them using gifts ‘ – I mentioned.

We should also intensify information and education on Reproductive Health that teaches topics such as assertiveness, menstrual hygiene, as well as the exercise of rights to adolescents to provide them with adequate knowledge to be guarded against sexual abuse.’

I took the opportunity to speak about the Orange Support Centre which provides support to victims of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence at no cost. Call the centre on the toll-free helpline, 0800 111 222 for support. You don’t need to be a victim. Join the campaign to end SGBV today!