Government Provides Relief to 813 Accused of Witchcraft
Accra, Ghana - 05 June, 2025 - The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has launched initiatives to support individuals accused of witchcraft, providing bi-monthly cash grants to 813 women and men under the Livelihoods Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) program.
This move aims to provide relief and support to those unjustly accused and stigmatized.
According to Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Sector Minister, the Ministry has intensified sensitization campaigns in communities where witchcraft accusations are prevalent. The Minister made this known while responding to an urgent question posed by Francis-Xavier Sosu, the Member of Parliament for Madina, on the floor of the House.
“It’s our fervent hope that the proposed amendment will receive necessary bi-partisan support from the House,” Dr Lartey stated.
Dr. Lartey emphasized the need for traditional leaders and the public to join forces in dismantling harmful superstitions surrounding witchcraft.
The Ministry's efforts also include a proposal to amend the Criminal Offences Act of 1960 (Act 29) to prohibit witch doctors and witch-finders from practicing. In 2022, the Ministry submitted a position paper to this effect and has written to the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice to enact a law explicitly criminalizing the practice.
Dr. Lartey expressed hope that the proposed amendment would receive bipartisan support from the House.
The Minister urged those stigmatized as witches or wizards to seek legal redress to restore their rights and dignity. She also made a passionate appeal to all citizens to desist from accusing persons suspected of witchcraft, emphasizing the need to protect the vulnerable and promote a more inclusive society.
Witchcraft accusations have been a persistent issue in Ghana, particularly in rural areas where traditional beliefs and superstitions remain strong. The government's initiatives aim to address this challenge and promote social protection for those affected. As the country continues to grapple with these issues, the Ministry's efforts offer a glimmer of hope for those unjustly accused and stigmatized.
The LEAP program, which provides cash grants and other forms of support to vulnerable individuals, has been instrumental in empowering communities and promoting social protection.
Source: Lead News Online
