NCCE NANDOM TAKES CAMPAIGN AGAINST SEXUAL EXPLOITATION TO THE AIRWAVESM

When silence protects abuse, speaking up can become the first step towards protection and justice. To strengthen public awareness and encourage communities to take action against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the Nandom Municipal Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) took its campaign against sexual exploitation to the airwaves of Nandom FM 101.9 MHz.

The live radio discussion focused on the dangers, effects and legal consequences of sexual exploitation in homes, schools and workplaces.

Speaking on the programme, Mr. Ansingnaa Bernard D., Civic Education Officer, explained that sexual exploitation occurs when a person abuses their power or position to demand sexual favours in exchange for benefits such as marks, employment, promotion or financial assistance.

Mr. Bernard emphasized that sexual exploitation is a serious violation of human rights and is prohibited under the 1992 Constitution of Ghana. He cited Article 15, which protects human dignity; Article 26(2), which prohibits customary practices that dehumanise or injure a person; and Article 28, which protects children from exploitative labour and cruel treatment.

He further noted that perpetrators could face prosecution under relevant laws, including the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), and the Domestic Violence Act, 2007 (Act 732).

Also contributing to the discussion, Mrs. Jennifer Dery Amiwa, Assistant Civic Education Officer, urged parents and victims to break the culture of silence surrounding sexual exploitation. She encouraged victims and the public to report cases to appropriate institutions, including DOVVSU, CHRAJ and the Department of Social Welfare, or call the toll-free emergency number 112.

She stressed the importance of protecting victims from further harm and assured the public that reported cases would be treated with confidentiality.

The Nandom Municipal Directorate also called on chiefs, opinion leaders, teachers and parents to play an active role in protecting children and vulnerable persons. They were encouraged to support victims and avoid blaming them, while working collectively to create safer homes, schools and workplaces.

The radio engagement formed part of the NCCE’s broader efforts to educate the public on GBV, promote awareness of rights and responsibilities, and encourage communities to speak up against sexual exploitation.