By Jones Anlimah
The Volta Regional Department of Gender, in collaboration with the Volta Branch of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), have commemorated this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign with ‘a Flags’ Ceremony at the Ho Transport Station in the Ho Municipality of the Volta region.
The event is part of the nationwide “16 Routes, 16 Stations: Public Transport Unites Against GBV” campaign, aimed at promoting safer public spaces, especially for women and girls.
The highlight of the ceremony was the symbolic hoisting of flags to demonstrate solidarity and commitment to ending GBV. Stakeholders, including transport operators, commuters, and community leaders, came together to promote awareness and advocate for safer public spaces.
In a speech delivered on behalf of the Volta Regional GPRTU Chairman, Mr. Moses Davor, the Union’s Representative, Mr. Cephas Adamah, emphasized the need for collective efforts to address GBV, which he described as a pressing societal issue. He highlighted that GBV is often perpetrated by individuals in positions of authority and called on transport operators, policymakers, and the broader community to take proactive steps to foster a culture of safety and respect for all.
“Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue; it is a fundamental human rights concern,” Mr. Adamah stated. He outlined the GPRTU’s commitment to tackling GBV through member training, collaboration with local organizations, and encouraging drivers to report incidents to law enforcement agencies.
He also called on the government to strengthen existing policies on GBV prevention, emphasizing the need to create a society where people can live harmoniously and free from violence.
The Volta Regional Director of the Department of Gender, Mrs. Thywill Kpe, highlighted the global significance of the campaign, which seeks to end violence against women and girls while promoting equality and human rights. “This 16-day campaign reminds us that both men and women share equal rights. Gender-based violence stems from unequal power relations and societal expectations, and we must all work to change that,” she said.
Mrs. Kpe also cautioned against harmful practices such as child marriage and sexual exploitation, emphasizing that these are offenses punishable under Ghanaian laws.
In response to questions, Madam Esi Sena Nyanyovor of the Department of Social Welfare urged the public to report cases of non-maintenance and other GBV-related issues to Social Welfare offices. She and Mrs. Kpe shared helplines—0800 800 800, 0800 111 222, and SMS to 8020—encouraging the public to take action and seek help in cases of abuse or violence.
The event reinforced the GPRTU’s role as a key partner in the nationwide fight against GBV, using public transport as a platform for education and advocacy. The public is thus encouraged to use the helplines provided to report cases of GBV and support initiatives that promote safer public spaces.
