Child trafficking survivor urges stronger action to protect Ghana's children

A child trafficking survivor and advocate, Godson Glawu, has called on the Government of Ghana to strengthen efforts to combat child trafficking, while sharing his journey from exploitation to advocacy.

Speaking at the National Justice Conference in Accra on July 7, 2026, during a session on child protection, Glawu recounted how he was trafficked at the age of seven after a man promised his parents that he would be enrolled in school in Accra.

He said he endured physical abuse, hunger and dangerous labour, including being forced to dive underwater to untangle fishing nets.

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“I was only seven years old when I was taken away with the promise that I would be sent to school. Instead, I was forced into hard labour and subjected to unimaginable suffering,” he said.

Glawu also recalled witnessing the death of his best friend during one of the fishing expeditions and suffering a serious chest injury that was left untreated.

He said the trauma he experienced became overwhelming, but the intervention of a woman who encouraged him not to give up helped him hold on to hope.

His life changed in April 2015 when a rescue operation by the Ghana Police Service, with support from the International Justice Mission (IJM), freed him from captivity.

He received medical care, rehabilitation and was reunited with his family after spending 10 years away from them.

Determined to rebuild his life, Glawu enrolled in vocational training, qualified as an electrical engineer and now operates his own electrical business.

Today, he is a leading member of the Ghana Survivor Network, a coalition of trafficking survivors working with the Ghana Police Service, the Department of Social Welfare and community leaders to educate the public and prevent child trafficking through schools, churches, radio programmes and community outreach.

While acknowledging the role played by IJM, the police and social welfare officers in his rescue and rehabilitation, Glawu urged government to increase investment in rescue operations, victim rehabilitation and aftercare services.

“Rescue is only the beginning. Survivors need support to rebuild their lives, access education, gain skills and reintegrate into society,” he said.

He warned that although he has regained his freedom, many children remain trapped in forced labour and trafficking.

“I am free today, but there are still many children out there who need our help. We must all do our part to protect vulnerable children and end child trafficking,” he added.

Glawu encouraged communities, institutions and individuals to remain vigilant and report cases of child exploitation to the appropriate authorities.

PAH/MA

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