Suhum stakeholders unite against human trafficking

In a significant move to strengthen community-led efforts against human trafficking, Engage Now Africa (ENA), in partnership with Ensign Global University ,successfully convened 85 key stakeholders for a high-impact Stakeholders Engagement Forum under the theme, “Sensitisation on the Reality of Human Trafficking and the Role of Community Leaders.”

The forum, held at the "Engage Now Africa House of Hope Conference Room in Suhum", brought together a diverse group of participants, including nurses, teachers, traditional leaders, faith-based representatives, security agencies, and local government officials.

The gathering aimed to "enhance collaboration and build a united front against human trafficking" and related forms of exploitation within the Suhum Municipality and beyond.

The event was graced by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Suhum, Lydia Ohenewaa Sarah, who delivered a compelling keynote address emphasising the critical role of local government in safeguarding citizens and supporting multi-sectoral initiatives to combat human trafficking.

Her presence highlighted the importance of sustained, community-driven interventions in addressing the growing challenge.

Participants received practical training on identifying warning signs of human trafficking, responding appropriately to suspected cases, and supporting survivors with dignity and care.

Through interactive discussions, case studies, and open dialogue, stakeholders gained deeper insight into trafficking tactics, including deceptive recruitment schemes and forced labour practices, while reaffirming their responsibilities as frontline protectors of vulnerable individuals.

Speaking on behalf of Ensign Global University, Dr Alberta Teye Agudey described the forum as a "catalyst for lasting change".

"This forum is not an endpoint, but a catalyst. When teachers, nurses, chiefs, and security agencies share knowledge and act together, communities become safer. Today, Suhum has taken a powerful step toward that reality," she stated.

Acknowledging Key Partners

The organisers expressed sincere appreciation to the institutions and dignitaries whose contributions enriched the forum.

These included the Office of the Suhum Municipal Chief Executive, Traditional Councils and Community Chiefs, the Ghana Police Service (DOVVSU and the CID Anti-Human Trafficking Unit), Ghana Immigration Service, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), the Department of Social Welfare, the State Attorney’s Office, representatives of the Christian and Muslim Councils, BNI, legal practitioners, and various civil society organisations.

Special recognition was also extended to Engage Now Africa for hosting and co-facilitating the event, as well as Ensign Global University for its continued academic leadership and commitment to community engagement.

Commitment to Sustained Action

As the forum concluded, stakeholders pledged to strengthen anti-trafficking efforts by sharing knowledge within their institutions and communities, improving referral pathways for vulnerable individuals, promoting public awareness through local communication channels, and sustaining partnerships that drive long-term impact.

The forum ended with a collective commitment to building safer communities and advancing a Ghana where every individual is informed, protected, and empowered against human trafficking.