The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has commissioned a new shelter for survivors of domestic violence, reaffirming government’s commitment to expand protection and support services across Ghana.
Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, joined by Domestic Violence Board Chairperson Dr. Miriam Iddrisu and a UNICEF representative, opened the facility on Friday, May 29, 2026.
Dr. Lartey described it as “a symbol of safety, dignity, hope and restoration for survivors of abuse.”
Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister said domestic and gender-based violence continues to affect women, children and other vulnerable persons, often leaving victims with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and long-term psychosocial effects.
She noted that despite existing interventions, including the Domestic Violence Act, the Domestic Violence Secretariat, and DOVVSU ;access to safe shelters for survivors “remains limited.”
According to Dr. Lartey, the new facility forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s administration’s broader push to enhance shelter and protection services nationwide.
The goal is to ensure survivors receive care, protection, and psychosocial support to rebuild their lives.
“Shelters play a critical role in providing temporary refuge, counselling, legal aid, medical care and rehabilitation services for survivors,” she said, reaffirming government’s commitment to preventing domestic violence and strengthening rehabilitation and reintegration systems.
Representatives from the Domestic Violence Management Board and UNICEF commended the Ministry for the initiative. They called for stronger prevention efforts, public education, and effective operational systems to ensure the shelter’s sustainability.
The Ministry says additional shelters are planned as part of its strategy to leave no survivor behind.
