The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, through the Domestic Violence Secretariat and with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has inaugurated the Ho Market Paralegals Association.

This initiative follows a two-day training aimed at educating market workers on various laws that safeguard their rights.

The newly formed association will play a crucial role in educating and advocating for market women and men on several issues.

Additionally, it will serve as a link between the market community and government agencies to address these concerns.

At the launch of the event, Madame Thywill Eyra Kpe, the Volta Regional Director of the Department of Gender, said that the aim is to empower selected individuals in the market to assist their peers in addressing sexual and gender-based violence, child abuse, neglect, and child labour.

She further stated that, by equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills, they are sure they can effectively handle and correct these issues within the market environment.

Madame Kpe emphasised the practical benefits of this initiative. "Many market workers face challenges but lack the time to report these issues to law enforcement. By positioning paralegals within the market, we provide accessible advice and support, ensuring that legal and social protections are readily available."

The training also covered marriage laws and intestate succession law, ensuring that participants were well informed about their rights.

Madame Malonin Asibi, Head of the Domestic Violence Secretariat, underscored the broader objectives of the program. "This initiative aims to raise awareness and encourage individuals to voice their concerns, seeking redress for issues that affect them."

The newly trained paralegals expressed their enthusiasm for the program and its potential impact.

They are optimistic that their new roles will significantly benefit the market community, providing much-needed support and advocacy.

This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing legal awareness and protection for market workers, demonstrating the Ministry's commitment to addressing and mitigating issues of domestic violence, child abuse, and other social challenges within the market setting.