The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has convened the first quarter meeting of the Human Trafficking Management Board (HTMB), underscoring Government’s determination to intensify efforts against human trafficking and related exploitation in Ghana.
At the meeting, the Minister administered the Oath of Office and Secrecy to newly appointed Board members, congratulating them and commending their readiness to serve. She emphasized that their expertise will be crucial in advancing Ghana’s anti-trafficking agenda.
The Minister noted that the HTMB’s role extends beyond administrative oversight, stressing its responsibility to guide national policy and ensure coordinated interventions. She highlighted the evolving nature of trafficking, pointing to emerging threats such as cyber-related crimes and deceptive recruitment schemes like QNet, which pose serious risks to young people.
Human trafficking in Ghana, she explained, manifests in forced labour, sexual exploitation, child trafficking, and irregular migration, affecting women, children, and increasingly young men.
Discussions at the meeting centered on national priorities, including preparations for the World Day Against Human Trafficking and inputs into the development of a new National Plan of Action (2027–2031). With the current plan set to conclude in 2026, the Minister described the new framework as timely and necessary to address emerging challenges. She urged Board members to provide technical guidance to ensure the plan is practical, inclusive, and results-oriented.
On prevention, she stressed the importance of public education, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, particularly as Ghana prepares for major global events such as the upcoming FIFA World Cup, which could heighten risks of trafficking and exploitation.
Board members reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination and accelerating efforts to eliminate human trafficking in Ghana.
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