By Linda Naa Deide Aryeetey
Accra, Dec.13, GNA – The Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana (PPAG) and OXFAM Ghana on Thursday shared protection tips with traders and pedestrians in Accra’s business district against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
In line with the 2024 edition of the 16 Days of Activism for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, the two organizations exposed the public to available support systems for SGBV victims.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence’s campaign is raising awareness and mobilising public thought and action to end all forms of violence against women and girls.
This year’s campaign is on the theme: United against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
Mr Archibald Adams, Communications Manager of OXFAM Ghana, said the physical and psychological trauma caused by SGBV impacted the survivors, with a rippling effect on families and communities, eroding trust and stability.
He said SGBV affected women and girls, often stripping them of opportunities to thrive in education, careers, and leadership, reinforcing cycles of poverty and inequality and hindering the collective progress of societies.
Mr Adams said in many cases, cultural taboos and stigmas prevented survivors from seeking justice, allowing perpetrators to evade punishment.
He called on the government to implement SGBV prevention policies and provide funds to the Domestic Violence Fund for use by victims to seek medical and other psychosocial support.
Naa Atswei Nee-Okpey, Communications Manager of PPAG, urged anyone facing any form of abuse to contact PPAG’s YENAKASA Contact Centre on 0800202010 for free and confidential support.
She said “the PPAG currently facilitates justice for survivors and accountability for perpetrators of SGBV in its bid to create a violence-free Ghana.
Through lively interactions, the PPAG and Oxfam Ghana raised awareness on SGBV while empowering individuals and communities with knowledge and practical tools to combat violence.”
The 16 Days of Activism reaffirmed PPAG’s commitment to promoting safer, equitable communities, aligned with the mission of delivering quality sexual and reproductive health and rights information and services to all.
GNA