Sunyani: Mr. Peter Biya Yah, the Bono Regional Director of the Social Welfare Department, has highlighted the urgent need for a ‘rescue shelter’ to combat the increasing issue of child streetism and alms begging in the Bono region. He stressed that while the government has a role to play, it cannot bear the responsibility alone, urging wealthy individuals, philanthropic organizations, and corporate and religious bodies to contribute to this cause.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Yah made these remarks during the launch of ’30 Days of Activism Against Domestic Violence’ in Sunyani. The event is part of a campaign by the Bono Regional Office of the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) to address domestic violence and human rights abuses in the region. Mr. Yah expressed concern over the rise of child streetism and begging, particularly in areas like the Nana Bosoma Central Market and the Sunyani Business District.
He further emphasized the importance of adequately resourcing the Department of Welfare and DOVVSU to effectively combat gender-based violence. He mentioned that the lack of vehicles was hindering DOVVSU personnel from following up on cases, rescuing victims, and prosecuting offenders.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Beatrice Korsah, Bono Regional Coordinator of DOVVSU, explained that the campaign would include intensified public education efforts in markets, lorry terminals, churches, mosques, and other public spaces. She noted that gender-based violence is a growing concern in the region, with many women suffering from severe human rights abuses and enduring emotional and physical trauma.
DSP Korsah called on the public to support the campaign by reporting incidents to the social welfare department or DOVVSU, enabling the rescue of victims from severe human rights violations.