International Justice Mission (IJM) Ghana, in collaboration with the Institute of Statistical and Economics Research (ISSER) from the University of Ghana, recently hosted a stakeholder forum to discuss research findings on human trafficking in Ghana. This pivotal event marked the conclusion of a significant project funded by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) aimed at combating human trafficking.
Madam Anita Budu, the Country Director of IJM Ghana, highlighted the journey of the $1.8 million INL-funded project initiated four years ago. Originally set as a two-year venture starting in 2019, the project's duration extended due to the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on its operations. The primary objective was to strengthen the criminal justice system's response to human trafficking, particularly focusing on Volta Lake and Kotoka International Airport, through capacity building and collaborative casework.
The forum underscored the crucial role of survivors, the media, the Coalition of NGOs Against Child Trafficking, and members of Parliament in advocating against human trafficking and calling for resource allocation to the cause.
Implemented across nine regions – Savannas, Northern, Bono East, Greater Accra, Volta, Oti, Eastern, Central, and Bono – the project has reached over 70 districts, benefiting from its wide array of initiatives, including those implemented by CARITAS International.
Madam Budu proudly announced the project's accomplishments, including the rescue of 272 victims from cross-border and child trafficking on Lake Volta, the apprehension of 115 suspects, and the processing of 38 trafficking cases for prosecution by State and police prosecutors.
Expressing gratitude towards the project's supporters, including members of Parliament, the Human Trafficking Secretariat, law enforcement officers, prosecutors, survivors, media personnel, and NGOs, Madam Budu urged continued efforts to eradicate human trafficking.
Commendations were also given to ISSER for their critical evaluation and research, which will guide IJM Ghana's future direction in fighting human trafficking.
The stakeholder forum, held at the Africa Regent Hotel in Accra, was attended by dignitaries from various law enforcement agencies, the Ghana Survivor Network, and representatives from the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, among others. Each pledged ongoing support to IJM Ghana's mission to free victims and secure a better future for all affected by human trafficking in Ghana.
