The Upper West Domestic Violence Fund was launched in Wa. It is a crucial step towards aiding domestic violence victims in the region. This commendable effort is made possible by OXFAM Ghana. They have provided a seed fund of One Hundred Thousand Ghana Cedis (GH₵100,000). Additionally, there is support from Gyinsung Shelter, the Department of Gender, and other significant civil society organizations and stakeholders.
The event took place in Wa on Tuesday, April 8th. It united traditional leaders, civil society members, business figures, government representatives, and human rights advocates. Their purpose was to provide tangible assistance and genuine hope for those affected by domestic abuse. Dr Martin Dery is the Executive Director of Pronet North and Chairman of the Upper West Regional Gender Support Network. In his opening speech, he acknowledged that funding has always posed a challenge in combatting domestic violence. This is especially true for victims.
“Financing has always been a challenge, especially in poor communities like ours, where victims often suffer in silence because they can’t afford to seek help. But today is different. Today, we’re taking a stand as a region,” he stated.
During the fund’s launch, Madam Thelma Hayford, Gender Advisor at OXFAM Ghana, highlighted its origins. They successfully implemented a similar initiative in the Upper East Region. This model was pioneered by the Widows and Orphans Movement. It proved invaluable for survivors. It provided them with shelter, legal aid, and economic empowerment.
She stated that the Upper West Region is now implementing its own locally developed answer to a long-standing issue.
Madam Charity Batuure is the Regional Director of the Department of Gender in Upper West. According to her, the fund’s introduction will provide assistance. This assistance is much-needed by those impacted by domestic abuse.
The launch of the fund holds great significance for many individuals. Madam Batuure emphasized this by reflecting on past instances. She mentioned the notorious ‘Anaata case’ where survivors were constantly relocated. They were desperately trying to find a safe place.
“It took eight years to get a proper shelter, and the journey here has been long and painful. But today, it’s a dream come true,” she declared.
During his keynote speech, Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional Minister, highlighted the significance of the fund’s launch. It represents Ghana’s global responsibility for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He emphasized how the Gyinsung Shelter and Upper West Domestic Violence Fund serve as symbols of hope in the region. They demonstrate how working together with various stakeholders can effectively end the cycle of violence. This collaboration can provide a fresh start for those most in need.
“Let us all be ambassadors for the Youth Shelter and the Domestic Violence Fund,” said a speaker. The survivors are counting on us. And with unity, we can build a region where no one is silenced, and everyone feels safe.” He urged.
Wa | Upper West Region
