The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Ghana has challenged the government of Ghana fo increase funding for the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, particularly for the Domestic Violence Fund, to enhance support for survivors of gender-based violence.
This request was made by FIDA Ghana’s Executive Director, Susana Aryitey, during a media event after a seminar held under a project backed by the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF) to track budget allocations for gender-related services.
Mrs. Aryitey stated that the current funding levels are inadequate to provide the necessary services for survivors of domestic and gender-based violence.
She mentioned that these services include medical care, legal help, psychosocial counseling, and material support, all of which are vital for helping survivors rebuild their lives.
“Survivors require essential services, and without sufficient funding, they are excluded from the support system they urgently need,” she emphasized.
Mrs. Aryitey pointed out that insufficient funding not only limits survivors’ access to care but also erodes public trust in the justice system.
She warned that when victims cannot obtain the support they require, some may lose faith in legal processes and take matters into their own hands.
She also highlighted that gender-based violence has significant social and economic repercussions beyond its immediate effects on victims.
According to her, the long-term impacts on mental health and the loss of productive human resources place a heavy burden on the country’s development.
“We are not just losing money; we are also losing the health and productivity of our citizens. If these critical gaps are not filled, the situation could become explosive,” Ms. Aryitey cautioned.
FIDA Ghana is therefore urging the government to take action.FIDA Ghana is therefore urging the government and Parliament to prioritize increased funding for the Domestic Violence Fund in the national budget to ensure survivors receive timely, comprehensive and quality support services.
The organization says sustained investment in survivor support is essential to strengthening Ghana’s response to gender-based violence and ensuring access to justice for victims.