FIDA-Ghana, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has called for urgent steps to address the rising cases of domestic violence in Ghana.
At a policy dialogue on Friday, August 15, at the Sunlodge Hotel, Tesano, the groups engaged government officials, civil society, youth groups, health and legal professionals to review the 2025 national budget and discuss strategies to strengthen support for survivors.
Executive Director of FIDA-Ghana, Susan Aryeetey, described the situation as troubling. She cited recent data from the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU), which shows cases of abuse are increasing, with many not reaching the courts or police.
“Some cases are dropped because families prefer quick compensation. Often, media involvement ends once money changes hands,” she said.
Aryeetey stressed that survivors, particularly persons with disabilities who face what she called “double jeopardy,” require comprehensive services beyond financial assistance.
The dialogue also revealed sharp funding cuts for domestic violence programs. Domestic Violence and Funding expert, Frank Wilson Bodza, noted that allocations have dropped by about 88 percent — from GH¢ 2.7 million to just GH¢ 337,500.
He urged the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection to ensure consistent funding, released in full and on time, ideally in the first quarter of the year. He further recommended a minimum 30 percent annual increase and the appointment of a dedicated fund manager.
“Support services like medical and legal aid should be financed to improve victim assistance,” Bodza added, while calling on the Attorney General, police, health and local authorities to contribute resources.
On the sidelines of the event, Aryeetey told Univers News that delays in releasing funds often leave budgets underutilized. She also appealed to healthcare providers to reduce medical report fees, which she said range between GH¢ 300 and GH¢ 800, making justice inaccessible to many poor women.
“We must prioritize making funds available and sustainable, ensuring that psychosocial, material and essential services are in place. It would also be helpful for doctors to review their charges to ease the burden on marginalized survivors,” she said.
Aryeetey further urged government to partner with the private sector to support shelters and health initiatives, noting that corporate social responsibility could help boost resources.
She reaffirmed FIDA’s collaboration with ActionAid, UNFPA and the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), stressing that sustained political will is key.
“With the right support, Ghana can create a future where justice and care are accessible to all survivors,” she concluded.
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Story by Fauzia Salim
Edited by Michelle Lartey
