The Domestic Violence Management Board has held its maiden meeting for 2026, with the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection commending members for their continued dedication to strengthening Ghana’s response to domestic and gender-based violence.
Addressing the Board, the Minister expressed appreciation for the unwavering support members provided over the past year, describing the period as both challenging and instructive for the Ministry’s work in addressing abuse, protecting vulnerable groups, and improving support systems for survivors.
She highlighted the strong collaboration between the Ministry and the Ghana Police Service, particularly the Criminal Investigations Department (CID). According to the Minister, improved coordination and information sharing between institutions have significantly enhanced the responsiveness to reported cases of domestic violence. She also acknowledged the vital role played by the media in amplifying public awareness on domestic violence and encouraging victims and witnesses to report cases.
Commending the Board for fulfilling its statutory responsibilities and providing strategic direction, the Minister reminded members of their mandate under the Domestic Violence Act. She noted that the Board is tasked with overseeing the implementation of the Act, advising the Minister on policy and operational matters, coordinating stakeholder collaboration, and supporting initiatives aimed at preventing and responding effectively to domestic violence across the country.
Providing an update on the Secretariat’s activities, the Acting Head of the Domestic Violence Secretariat, Madam Malonin Asibi, outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination among key stakeholders and improve services for survivors of domestic violence. She emphasized that the Secretariat remains committed to building a more responsive and survivor-centered support system.
The Chairperson of the Domestic Violence Management Board, Dr. Miriam Iddrisu, also reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to providing strategic leadership to ensure the effective implementation of the Domestic Violence Act. She stressed the importance of sustained collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, and development partners to strengthen national efforts to prevent domestic violence.
During the meeting, the Domestic Violence Secretariat presented a comprehensive summary of its key achievements and outlined priority activities for 2026. The Secretariat reported progress in professional training programs across the medical, legal, psychosocial, and social welfare sectors. It also highlighted improved stakeholder collaboration and expanded public awareness initiatives aimed at strengthening prevention mechanisms and referral systems.
Looking ahead, the Secretariat identified several priority areas for the year. These include intensified public education on domestic violence, legislative advancement of the revised domestic violence framework, stronger collaboration with civil society organizations, and improved logistical and operational support to enhance service delivery nationwide.
The meeting reaffirmed the Board’s collective commitment to deepening national efforts to combat domestic and gender-based violence while ensuring better protection and support for survivors across Ghana.
