The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has convened the first-quarter meeting of the Human Trafficking Management Board (HTMB) for 2026, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to intensifying the fight against human trafficking and related exploitation in Ghana.

The HTMB, which provides strategic policy direction and oversight for national anti-trafficking efforts, plays a key role in coordinating prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnerships among stakeholders.

During the meeting, the Minister administered the Oath of Office and Secrecy to newly appointed Board members.

She congratulated them and expressed appreciation for their willingness to serve, emphasising that their expertise will be critical in advancing Ghana’s anti-trafficking agenda.

In her remarks, the Minister stressed that the Board’s mandate extends beyond administrative functions, highlighting its responsibility to shape national policy and ensure effective, coordinated interventions.

She also drew attention to the evolving nature of human trafficking, citing emerging threats such as cyber-related crimes and recruitment schemes like QNet, which continue to pose significant risks, particularly to young people.

According to her, human trafficking in Ghana manifests in various forms, including forced labour, sexual exploitation, child trafficking, and irregular migration, affecting women, children, and increasingly young men.

Discussions at the meeting focused on key national priorities, including preparations for the commemoration of the World Day Against Human Trafficking and contributions toward the development of a new National Plan of Action (2027–2031) aimed at eliminating human trafficking in Ghana.

The Minister noted that with the current Plan of Action set to expire in 2026, developing a new framework is both timely and necessary to address emerging challenges and existing gaps.

She explained that the National Plan of Action serves as a comprehensive guide for stakeholders and supports the implementation of the Human Trafficking Act, 2005 (Act 694), covering prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnerships.

She therefore urged Board members to offer technical guidance and insights to ensure the new plan is practical, inclusive, and results-oriented.

On prevention, she underscored the importance of public education, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, particularly as Ghana prepares for major global events such as the upcoming FIFA World Cup, which could heighten the risks of trafficking and exploitation.

Board members reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination and accelerating efforts to eliminate human trafficking in Ghana.