NCCE Kumasi Metro, UNFPA and Global Affairs Canada Sensitize Traders on Rape, Defilement and GBV Prevention

The Kumasi Metropolitan Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), in collaboration with UNFPA and Global Affairs Canada, organized an outreach programme at the Kumasi Central Market to sensitize traders on rape, defilement, gender-based violence and the protection of women and children.

Speaking during the engagement, Madam Evelyn Amoako-Antwi, a Detective Inspector with the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), cautioned participants against rape and defilement. She explained that sexual activity involving a child is a criminal offence, even if the child appears to initiate or consent to the act. She further emphasized that under the law, any sexual act involving a child constitutes defilement, regardless of the level of penetration.

The programme brought together both male and female traders, who actively participated in the discussions. Participants made useful contributions, shared their views, and responded enthusiastically to questions posed by Mr. Awal Iddrisu, making the session lively, interactive, and educative.

Mr. Awal Iddrisu called on men and boys to speak up against all forms of violence and abuse. He urged them to become advocates for the protection of women and children by reporting cases of abuse, promoting respect for human dignity, supporting equality of opportunity, and encouraging responsible behaviour in their communities.

Also present at the programme were Mr. Daniel Fayin Annan of DOVVSU and the Regional DOVVSU Coordinator, Madam Victoria Ahoredzi. Mr. Thomas Kyei Baffour, a staff member of United Television, was also in attendance.

The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to deepen public awareness on gender-based violence, child protection and the need for collective action in safeguarding vulnerable persons in society.