Story by Paul Mensah Nsor
Accra, Ghana - The Renel Ghana Foundation, in collaboration with SONGTABA and supported by the UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women, has issued a powerful call for immediate and comprehensive action to address critical gaps in the implementation of Ghana's Domestic Violence Act, 2007 (Act 732).
The press briefing, led by Executive Director Nelson Richardson Mandela, painted a stark picture of systemic failures in implementing the Domestic Violence Act of 2007, revealing deep-rooted challenges that continue to leave survivors vulnerable and unprotected.
The press briefing revealed alarming statistics that underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms. The 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey exposed shocking rates of intimate partner violence (IPV), with 53.4% prevalence in the Savannah Region and 44% in the Central Region. Additionally, over 1,000 older women in northern Ghana have been banished to "witch camps," with 52.7% suffering from depression and 97% experiencing extremely low quality of life.
1. Institutional Weaknesses
The organization pointed to critical shortcomings in government response, including:
- Limited budget allocations
- Insufficient logistics
- Shortage of trained personnel
- Delays in establishing the Domestic Violence Management Board
Low Legal Awareness
Many professionals, including police, social workers, and judicial staff, remain unaware of critical protective mechanisms within the Act, leading to systematic underutilization of legal remedies.
Financial and Logistical Deficits
The Domestic Violence Victims Support Fund remains largely non-operational, leaving survivors without crucial financial and material assistance.
Cultural Barriers
Persistent patriarchal norms and social stigma continue to deter survivors from reporting abuse and seeking help.
The Renel Ghana Foundation has called for comprehensive reforms, including:
- Full operationalization of the Domestic Violence Victims Support Fund
- Mandatory training for law enforcement and judicial officers
- Nationwide awareness campaigns
- Enhanced accountability mechanisms
- Expansion of one-stop support centers
The Gender Rights and Empowerment Project (G-REP) has piloted integrated support centers in selected districts, demonstrating the effectiveness of comprehensive, survivor-centered approaches.
"Ghana cannot afford to leave survivors at risk due to institutional inertia and underinvestment," the organization stated. "Every survivor deserves safety, dignity, and justice."
The press briefing serves as a critical wake-up call for policymakers, government institutions, and community leaders to take immediate and decisive action to protect women and girls from gender-based violence.
As the country continues to grapple with these challenges, the Renel Ghana Foundation remains committed to advocating for meaningful change and comprehensive implementation of the Domestic Violence Act.