UNFPA and Partners Launch Initiative to Combat Gender-Based Violence in Ghana.

Accra: The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and its partners have launched a new initiative titled '16 Routes, 16 Stations: Transport Unions Unite Against GBV' as part of the 16 Days of Activism campaign against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). This social initiative aims to rally support from transport operators, including taxis, trotro, intercity buses, and passengers in Ghana, to combat GBV.According to Ghana News Agency, the 16 Days of Activism is an annual international campaign that starts on November 25, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and runs until December 10, Human Rights Day. The campaign serves as a strategy to mobilize governments, decision-makers, and stakeholders to reflect and act on issues impacting the comprehensive development of women and girls. This year's global theme is 'Towards Beijing +30: Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls,' while Ghana's theme focuses on marking 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform f or Action.Dr. David Wilfred Ochan, UNFPA Country Representative, highlighted that public transport is a crucial service connecting communities and serves as an avenue to disseminate messages of hope and prevention against GBV. Over the next 16 days, the campaign will engage Ghana's transport sector in discussions about GBV, its causes, particularly within the transport sector, and its societal impact. The initiative aims to spark a movement through dialogues, information sharing, and grassroots engagement that could extend into print and public media.Ms. Dakoa Newman, Minister of the Gender Ministry, expressed concern over ongoing violence against women and girls in Ghana, despite existing legal frameworks and international treaties. She emphasized that GBV, including domestic violence, violates fundamental human rights and hinders national development. The Minister called for collective action to address this issue and announced plans for community sensitization activities in various regions as part of t he campaign.Mr. Charles Abani, United Nations Resident Coordinator, praised the partnership between UNFPA and the Ghana Private Road and Transport Union (GPRTU) as an innovative effort to end GBV, emphasizing the UN's longstanding commitment to this cause. Mr. Godfred Abulbire, General Secretary of GPRTU, encouraged transport sector members to spread GBV awareness, emphasizing the sector's potential for impactful advocacy and behavior change.