The Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) of the Ghana Police Service, led by Chief Inspector (C/I) Emmanuel Gyamfi Yeboah, on November 12, 2024, launched an impactful awareness campaign under the theme “Leave No Child Behind in the Fight Against Human Trafficking.”
The campaign aimed to educate local communities on the importance of vigilance and unity in protecting children from traffickers who prey on the most vulnerable in society.
The team kicked off the sensitization program at Techiman Senior High School and Nkoranza Senior High Technical School, before visiting Dormaa Ahenkro and Drobo Senior High Schools, and concluding the outreach at Mim and Kukuom Senior High Schools on November 13.
Addressing audiences across these institutions, Chief Inspector Yeboah urging for collective action to combat human trafficking.
He highlighted alarming statistics from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), revealing that children account for one-third of global trafficking victims.
“This is not just a statistic, it represents countless dreams shattered, childhoods stolen, and futures jeopardized,” he stressed.
Drawing inspiration from global leaders like Nelson Mandela, Yeboah urged the audience to reflect on their role in protecting others, quoting Mandela’s belief that “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived.
It is what difference we made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.”
C/I Yeboah also echoed the words of Martin Luther King Jr., reminding everyone, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” reinforcing that human trafficking is an injustice that must be eradicated for the sake of equality and humanity.
Chief Inspector Yeboah emphasized that leaving no child behind means recognizing the intrinsic worth of every individual.
It requires a commitment to ensuring their safety and well-being through education, law enforcement, survivor support, international cooperation, and community empowerment.
He called for heightened education and awareness to prevent trafficking, urging schools, community centers, and social media platforms to play a vital role in spreading crucial information.
Yeboah also stressed the importance of rigorously enforcing anti-trafficking laws and ensuring cross-border collaboration to bring traffickers to justice.
“Survivors of trafficking need comprehensive support to rebuild their lives,” he said, calling for medical care, psychological support, education, and reintegration programs to help victims heal and regain hope.
He also underscored the critical role of local communities, describing them as the first line of defense against traffickers.
“When communities are united and vigilant, traffickers find it much harder to operate,” Yeboah noted.
The Chief Inspector expressed gratitude to local and international NGOs, particularly OUR Rescue in Ghana, for their invaluable contributions to the fight against human trafficking.
These organizations have provided crucial resources, raised awareness, and supported survivors, but Yeboah reminded everyone that the fight is far from over and requires continued efforts and collaboration.
Chief Inspector Yeboah, Station Officer of the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, pledged to strengthen the Unit’s investigative capabilities and partnerships, ensuring traffickers are held accountable.
In closing, he rallied the audience to reaffirm their commitment to the cause.
“Together, we can build a world where everyone is safe, cherished, and free from exploitation,” Yeboah declared.
The sensitization campaign across Bono East was a resounding call to action, igniting hope and inspiring local communities to stand united in the fight against human trafficking.
With the unwavering dedication of the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit and its partners, a brighter future is on the horizon for vulnerable children, ensuring that no one is left behind in this crucial battle.
