The issue of human trafficking has severe consequences for individuals, and society as a whole across the globe; and Ghana is no different. Cases are on the rise, as people fall victim to well thought-out and coordinated plans to traffick human beings internally and externally.
According to International Justice Mission statistics from a research commissioned in 2022, 38% of children in Lake Volta communities are suspected victims of trafficking, with 45% in explotative labour, with nearly 75% of working children aged 12 years or younger.
Human trafficking poses serious social concerns for Ghana; victims are deceived by the pretense of traffickers due to factors such as poverty, and lack of job opportunities.
Attorney for the International Justice Mission (IJM), Nana Efua Amanfu hammered on the fact that we all have a duty to inform of instances or cases of human trafficking, otherwise we may also be found culpable. Adding, that citizens must be well educated on what exactly human trafficking is.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) describes human trafficking as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of people through force, fraud or deception, with the aim of exploiting them for profit.
Victims are often forced into child labour, domestic servitude, sexual exploitation, fishing, mining, and agricultural work, among others. Many fall victim to the lure of human trafficking under the pretense of a better life or future. Traffickers often use violence or fraudulent employment agencies and fake promises of education and job opportunities to achieve this.
Human trafficking in Ghana is complex, with many layers, driven by elements such as poverty, inequality, and exploitation.
Although the government and international organizations have introduced laws and intervention programs, trafficking continues to affect the vulnerable, mainly women and children.
The war on human trafficking can be won by engaging in important actions such as, stronger enforcement, education, and widespread economic opportunities, so as to protect citizens and eliminate modern slavery in Ghana.
So next time you see something that appears to be human trafficking, report it. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Starrfm.com.gh/Nana Amma Acquah
