Accra: Missing Children Ghana, a non-governmental organisation, is calling on the public to aid in the reunification of 55 lost and found children currently residing in orphanages in the Greater Accra and Central regions. These children were placed in orphanages by the Department of Social Welfare after being found by good samaritans.
According to Ghana News Agency, despite the efforts of orphanage staff and Social Welfare Department officers to reconnect these children with their families, many of the children were unable to provide sufficient details to facilitate their reunion. Ms Regina Asamoah, the Founder of Missing Children Ghana, shared insights into the emotional journey of attempting to reach out to the families, which began in September 2024. The children have experienced pain and trauma in their search for their families.
Ms Asamoah highlighted the emotional challenges, stating, "It was incredibly emotional and heart-wrenching. Seeing these children in tears, recounting the pain of being separated from their families - some of their stories will break your heart." The children, ranging from ages three to 23, miss their homes, parents, and siblings. They long to return to school and resume their lives.
The circumstances of the children's disappearance vary widely. Some got lost while running errands, others fled abusive homes, and some were victims of human trafficking. The 55 rescued children, comprising 35 males and 20 females, have been missing for different lengths of time, with cases dating back to 2009 and the most recent in 2024.
Since May 2021, Missing Children Ghana has been actively working to raise awareness about the issue of children stuck in orphanages. Through its Missing Children Documentary Series, the organisation has successfully reunited over 300 children and adults with their families.
Ms Asamoah remains hopeful that, with public support, partnerships, and involvement of key stakeholders, the remaining 55 children can be reunited with their families. She urged the public to share flyers of the children widely to expedite their reunification. Families recognizing the children or having pertinent information are encouraged to contact the NGO at 0594594662 or 0501222665 for assistance.
The Department of Social Welfare will facilitate the reunification process in the jurisdiction where each child was found. Ms Asamoah expressed gratitude to supporting organisations, including the Ghana Police Service, Social Welfare, the Africa Missing Children Network, and several others, for their continued support. "We could not do this without the support of our partners. Together, we are making progress in ensuring that these children are reunited with their loved ones and that no child remains lost forever," she stated.
