Salaga South MP demands an end to stigmatization of Girls who report Abuse

Story By: Deborah Adorsu

The Member of Parliament for Salaga South, Hajia Zuwera Mohammed Ibrahimah, has called for an immediate end to the stigmatization of girls who report sexual abuse in schools and communities, describing the practice as a major barrier to justice and protection.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the MP said survivors who speak up must be met with support, not shame, blame or social exclusion.

According to the lawmaker, many girls suffer in silence because they fear being labelled, victim-blamed or ostracized by their peers, families and communities after reporting abuse.

“When a girl reports abuse, she is seeking justice and protection, not stigmatization. We must create an environment where reporting is safe, confidential and respected,” the statement said.

The call comes amid growing public concern over school-related sexual abuse cases, including the ongoing investigations into alleged sexual harassment and assault at Obuasi Senior High Technical School, where the Ghana Education Service has interdicted the headmaster, Mr. Zakaria Abdulai, following reports involving 19 alleged victims.

Hajia Zuwera stressed that stigmatization not only traumatizes survivors a second time, but also emboldens perpetrators and undermines efforts to keep schools safe.

She further urged the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service to enforce mandatory reporting protocols and thorough background checks for staff posted to second-cycle institutions.
“Our second-cycle institutions must remain safe havens for knowledge, not breeding grounds for abuse.

Protecting the girl who reports is protecting the next girl,” she added.