The Parliamentary Committee on Gender, Children, and Social Welfare has launched an inspection tour of orphanages and shelter homes in Accra to assess the well-being of vulnerable children and evaluate the effectiveness of existing care programs.
The Committee led by its chairperson and MP for Krachi West, Hon. Helen Adjoa Ntoso, began its visits at the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection before proceeding to facilities such as Save Them Young Homes, New Life Nungua Children’s Home, and Great Mission International.
During the visits, caregivers raised serious concerns about the prolonged lack of educational access for children with special needs, some of whom have lived in shelters for over two decades without formal schooling or vocational training. Additionally, inadequate healthcare support for children with disabilities, autism, and chronic illnesses was highlighted as a persistent issue. Nii Afotey Bortey II, founder of New Life Nungua Children’s Home, also emphasized the importance of including shelter children in national sports and talent development initiatives.
Hon. Ntoso expressed concern about the conditions and assured stakeholders that the Committee would submit a thorough report to Parliament with recommendations for immediate action. She urged the Department of Social Welfare to reduce overcrowding in facilities and enhance care services. The Committee’s inspection continues through May 23, aiming to influence policy reforms to protect and uplift at-risk children nationwide.
