Engage Now Africa, in collaboration with the police in Ada East and the Department of Social Welfare, successfully rescued 20 victims of domestic trafficking in May.

Lydia Ohenewa, the Program Manager (EMS), disclosed that a Good Samaritan from Futuanya in Ada East alerted Engage Now Africa to the trafficking of 23 young girls outside the Ada East area.

The informant reported that some victims had been promised lucrative jobs but were sent to places like Akosombo and Yeji, where their circumstances differed drastically from the promises made.

The investigation revealed that some girls were forced into labour, while others faced sexual exploitation.

Twenty girls were confirmed to be entrapped in human trafficking and exploitation. Community watchdog members were mobilised to assist in the rescue efforts.

Barbara Mensah Appiah, Co-Coordinator, highlighted that the rising demand for cheap labour and sexual services contributes significantly to human trafficking.

She cited poverty, lack of economic opportunities, and prevailing social attitudes as the root causes.

Lydia Ohenewa expressed her gratitude to the social welfare officers for their role in rescuing and reintegrating the 20 victims into their communities.

Engage Now Africa, in partnership with United Way Ghana, has signed a memorandum of understanding to support 15 of the 20 victims.

These 15 individuals are now undergoing skills training, apprenticeships, and schooling following independent assessments by the United Way team.

One of the mothers of the victims, Mary's mother, expressed surprise and concern, cautioning other parents to stay vigilant even when dealing with relatives.

She had previously thought that trafficking only took place outside the country.

Afasi Komla urged community members to report any suspicious activities to the Ghana Police Service or call the Engage Now Africa helpline.