Stakeholders in the Gushegu Municipality of the Northern Region have renewed their commitment to collaborate more effectively in tackling rising cases of sexual violence, spousal rape and rape.
The renewed pledge was made during a stakeholder workshop in Gushegu aimed at strengthening prevention efforts, improving survivor-centred care, and enhancing coordination among institutions responsible for responding to gender-based violence.
The meeting brought together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Health Service, traditional authorities, community-based organisations and women’s groups.
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The workshop was organised by the Pan African Organisation for Research (PAORP-VWC) with support from the African Women Development Fund (AWDF).
Ms Amshanatu Seidu of the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development explained that sexual violence involved any sexual act committed against a person’s will through force, coercion, manipulation or abuse of power.
She stressed that both men and women could be victims, and that perpetrators may include relatives, acquaintances or strangers.
She identified mental health challenges, relationship conflicts, substance abuse, limited education and societal silence as major contributors to the problem.
Ms Seidu called for a survivor-centred approach, emphasising the right of victims to information, medical care, counselling, confidentiality, non-discrimination and legal protection. She urged stronger collaboration among the Police, Health and Social Welfare departments to ensure justice and long-term reintegration for survivors.
Corporal Daniel Ediemu of the Ghana Police Service, Gushegu Division, outlined the legal framework governing sexual violence and reaffirmed that spousal rape is a criminal offence punishable by law.
He assured that the Police would continue to handle cases professionally, applying trauma-informed methods during investigations and survivor engagement.
He stressed the importance of prompt reporting, proper evidence collection and coordinated action between law enforcement, health facilities and social welfare institutions.
Mr Mohammed Hamid of the Ghana Health Service highlighted the link between sexual and reproductive health and the prevention of abuse. He said good reproductive health required regular medical check-ups, proper nutrition, physical activity and access to family planning.
He added that reproductive health education empowered individuals,particularly women and girls, to make informed choices and reduce vulnerability to abuse.
Participants discussed the need for safe reporting spaces, continuous public education, and the dismantling of cultural norms that normalise abuse or silence victims.
The workshop concluded with key resolutions focused on strengthening institutional coordination, increasing community awareness, expanding access to survivor support services and enforcing existing laws against perpetrators.
