Regional News of Monday, 5 June 2006

Source: GNA

Assembly initiates measures to curb child abuse

Akweley-Nkwanta (C/R), June 5, GNA - The Awutu-Effutu-Senya District Anti-Child Trafficking and Child Abuse Committee is to embark on a special exercise as from Tuesday, June 13, aimed at apprehending parents and guardians who use the services of their children for trading activities during market days.

Mr Richmond Mensah, District Director for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAG), disclosed this in an interview with the Ghana News Agency at Akweley-Nkwanta, near Awutu-Ofaankor at the weekend.

The interview followed a durbar organized by Sowers and Harvesters of Precious Seeds (SAHOPS), a Non-Government Organization, based in Accra to educate parents and school children in the area on the various forms of child abuse.

Mr Mensah cautioned parents and guardians who indulge in such practices to stop immediately or be prepared to face prosecution. He said the measures had become necessary in view of the persistent failure of parents and guardians to heed calls to stop the practice. Reverend Margaret Asem, National President of SAHOPS assured the District Assembly of SAHOPS preparedness to assist in curbing the practice. Rev. Asem appealed to chiefs and landowners in the district to release lands for the construction of schools and health facilities to open up the District.