The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has renewed discussions with stakeholders on efforts to end witchcraft accusations and protect women affected by the practice.

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, held discussions with the Executive Director of the Sanneh Institute, Rev. Prof. John Azumah, and members of his delegation on concerns surrounding witchcraft accusations in Ghana.

The meeting focused on advocacy to end accusations of witchcraft, improve the conditions of women affected by them and support efforts towards the passage of the Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill.

The proposed legislation seeks to criminalise witchcraft accusations and related practices.

Rev. Prof. Azumah shared the Sanneh Institute’s research and engagement with traditional leaders and communities on the issue.

He stressed the need for renewed efforts to secure the passage and presidential assent of the Bill, adding that the Institute and its partners remained committed to advocacy and public education.

The delegation also raised concerns about the continued existence of settlements commonly referred to as “witch camps” and the situation of women who have been forced to leave their communities following accusations of witchcraft.

Dr Lartey reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to protecting the rights, dignity and wellbeing of women and other vulnerable persons affected by harmful traditional practices.

She said addressing witchcraft accusations required cooperation among government institutions, civil society organisations, faith-based groups, traditional authorities and other stakeholders.

The Minister emphasised that protecting women affected by such accusations should be treated as a shared responsibility, with sustained engagement required to address the causes and consequences of the practice.

The engagement forms part of efforts to strengthen collaboration among state and non-state actors towards ending harmful practices associated with witchcraft accusations and improving protection for affected women.