Ghana Strengthens Fight Against Human Trafficking At First Quarter HTMB Meeting

Ghana Strengthens Fight Against Human Trafficking at First Quarter HTMB Meeting
The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has convened the first quarter meeting of the Human Trafficking Management Board (HTMB) for 2026, reaffirming government’s commitment to intensifying efforts against human trafficking and related forms of exploitation.

The HTMB, which provides strategic policy direction and oversight for national anti-trafficking initiatives, plays a pivotal role in coordinating prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnerships among key stakeholders.

During the meeting, the Minister administered the Oath of Office and Secrecy to newly appointed Board members, congratulating them and expressing confidence in their capacity to advance Ghana’s anti-trafficking agenda. She emphasized that the Board’s mandate extends beyond administrative responsibilities to include guiding national policy and ensuring coordinated and effective interventions.

Highlighting the evolving nature of human trafficking, the Minister pointed to emerging threats such as cyber-related crimes and fraudulent recruitment schemes, including those linked to QNet, which continue to pose significant risks, particularly to young people. She noted that trafficking in Ghana manifests in various forms, including forced labour, sexual exploitation, child trafficking, and irregular migration, affecting women, children, and increasingly young men.

Key discussions at the meeting focused on national priorities, including preparations for the World Day Against Human Trafficking and contributions toward the development of a new National Plan of Action (2027–2031) aimed at eliminating human trafficking.

The Minister observed that with the current plan set to expire in 2026, developing a new framework is both timely and necessary to address emerging challenges and existing gaps. She explained that the National Plan of Action serves as a comprehensive guide supporting the implementation of the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694), with a focus on prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnerships.

She further urged Board members to provide technical expertise to ensure the new plan is practical, inclusive, and results-oriented. Emphasizing prevention, the Minister called for intensified public education, community engagement, and strengthened partnerships, particularly as Ghana prepares for major global events such as the FIFA World Cup, which can heighten the risk of trafficking and exploitation.

Members of the Board reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination and accelerating efforts to eliminate human trafficking in Ghana.