By Samira Larbie, GNA
Accra, April 12, GNA — The Family-Based Care Alliance (FaBCA) on Sunday called on the Government, law enforcement agencies, civil society, and the public to prioritise the protection and dignity of street-connected children, rather than applying punitive measures.
In a release to commemorate the 2026 International Day for Street Children, observed globally on April 12, the FaBCA said children living on the streets were often wrongly treated as offenders instead of victims of systemic neglect, poverty, and abuse, urging a shift in approach to one that safeguards their rights.
The Day is being observed on the theme: “Access to Justice: Protect, Not Punish.”
The Alliance, a Christ-centred movement dedicated to promoting family-based care for orphans and vulnerable children, said the situation in Ghana remained alarming, with estimates indicating that more than 61,000 children lived on the streets in Accra alone, while earlier national figures suggested at least 30,000 across major urban centres.
“These children face daily risks including violence, exploitation, unsafe living conditions, and limited access to education and healthcare, reinforcing cycles of poverty and exclusion,” the release said.
It highlighted broader child protection concerns, noting that about 94 per cent of children, aged between one and 14 years in Ghana, experienced some form of physical punishment or psychological aggression.
The release acknowledged existing legal and policy frameworks such as the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), and the role of institutions like the Department of Social Welfare, as well as support from partners including UNICEF.
However, significant gaps in implementation persist, leaving many street-connected children excluded from essential services and exposed to stigma, harassment, and criminalisation, it added.
The FaBCA emphasised that street-connected children were not criminals but vulnerable individuals whose rights had been violated and their needs remained unmet.
It, therefore, urged government institutions to strengthen enforcement of child protection laws and prioritise rehabilitation and reintegration programmes to safeguard their welfare.
The Alliance called on law enforcement agencies to adopt child-sensitive approaches that upheld the rights and dignity of children, while encouraging civil society organisations and development partners to expand family-based care initiatives and preventive interventions.
Communities and individuals were further encouraged to change their perceptions and respond with compassion, recognising that children do not choose to live on the streets by default.
The FaBCA reaffirmed its commitment to advocating safe and nurturing family environments for all children through partnerships, community engagement, and sustainable care solutions.
“As we mark this important day, we reiterate that every child deserves protection, justice, and a future,” it added.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe