The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has condemned a worrying viral video that depicts a group of men coercing a child into smoking a cigarette.
In a statement released on November 21, the Ministry characterised this act as abusive, illegal, and a clear infringement on the rights and dignity of the child.
The Ministry stated that exposing a child to harmful substances is a form of child endangerment and violates the provisions of the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), which ensures every child is protected from physical, psychological, and moral harm.
Such behaviours also compromise national initiatives under the Early Childhood Care and Development Policy, which aims to provide safe and nurturing environments for children.
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection has subsequently referred the video to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service for prompt investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
Additionally, the Ministry has urged parents, guardians, and the public to fulfil their duty to protect children from all forms of abuse.
As the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence come to an end, the Ministry has called upon traditional authorities, religious organisations, civil society groups, and the general public to enhance their efforts in protecting vulnerable groups, especially women and children.
Find the full statement below
