Domestic Violence Secretariat Takes Abuse Awareness Campaign to Accra Markets
The Domestic Violence Secretariat has taken its public education campaign on domestic, sexual and gender-based violence to market women in four Accra markets, equipping them with information on how to recognise abuse, report cases and access support.
The Secretariat, under the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, organised the weeklong sensitisation exercise at Nima Market, Mallam Market, Mallam Atta Market and Amasaman Market.
The sessions focused on helping participants identify different forms of violence and abuse that can occur in homes, relationships, and communities. The market women were also educated on the effects of such abuse on individuals and families, as well as the risks of remaining silent or delaying efforts to seek help.
Participants received practical guidance on what to do when they experience or witness violence, including how to report cases and access the appropriate referral services. The discussions highlighted the importance of seeking assistance from relevant institutions to ensure that survivors receive the protection, care and redress they need.
The engagement also provided an opportunity for the women to ask questions, raise concerns and seek clarification on issues surrounding domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. Resource persons explained how to report and refer cases to the appropriate institutions for support and further action.
The exercise forms part of the Domestic Violence Secretariat’s community outreach and public education efforts to bring information on violence and abuse closer to the public.
Through the initiative, the Secretariat seeks to strengthen community awareness, encourage the reporting of abuse, and improve access to support services for survivors and others affected by domestic and gender-based violence.
Grace Acheampong, ISD
