Ghana’s battle against human trafficking sees troubling setbacks, report reveals.
The 2024 Ibrahim Index of African Governance has revealed concerning setbacks in Ghana’s anti-trafficking efforts, with significant declines in progress recorded between 2018 and 2023. Previously recognized as a leader in combatting trafficking, Ghana now faces a renewed struggle to curb trafficking activities, which have seen a sharp rise over the past five years.
From 2013 to 2024, Ghana achieved notable reductions in trafficking cases. However, recent trends indicate a reversal, with trafficking on the rise and undermining much of the progress achieved over the previous decade.
The Index noted Ghana’s strong performance from 2014 to 2018, during which the country maintained a solid anti-trafficking rating of 68.8 out of 100. Unfortunately, the score has since fallen, reaching a worrying low of 31.3 out of 100 in both 2022 and 2023.
In response to the worsening situation, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection has expanded its efforts to strengthen law enforcement’s capacity to fight trafficking. A comprehensive training program has been rolled out to 60 law enforcement agencies, equipping them with advanced tools and knowledge to tackle adult and child trafficking, child labor, irregular migration, and other forms of exploitation.
While Ghana has made strides in addressing human trafficking over the years, the recent resurgence of trafficking cases points to persistent challenges. The recent decline in the absence of trafficking emphasizes the need for intensified efforts to protect vulnerable groups and prevent exploitation by traffickers.
