LEGAL EXPERT URGES COLLECTIVE EFFORTS TO COMBAT NEWBORN ABANDONMENT CRISIS IN GHANA
Story by: NSIAH WILLIAMS
Private Legal Practitioner John Agbotey Highlights Legal Ramifications and Societal Impact of Child Neglect; Calls for Collaborative Solutions.
In a recent discourse on the alarming trend of newborn abandonment, Private Legal Practitioner, John Agbotey, emphasized the gravity of the issue and underscored the legal consequences associated with neglecting parental duties.
Drawing upon the provisions of the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act, 560), Agbotey stressed that every parent is bound by law to safeguard the welfare of their child, including ensuring the right to life, dignity, and basic necessities such as shelter and education.
The discussion was sparked by the kind gesture of Ghanaian Gospel Musician, Ohemaa Mercy, who, during a corporate social responsibility initiative with Wilmar African, visited the Police Hospital and witnessed firsthand the plight of abandoned infants.
Mercy seized the opportunity to advocate for responsible parenting and implored mothers not to forsake their offspring, despite facing challenging circumstances.
Reports of newborns found abandoned in various locations across the country have raised concerns about the underlying societal issues contributing to this distressing phenomenon.
From infants discovered near places of worship to those rescued by compassionate individuals in remote areas, the stories paint a grim picture of the struggles faced by vulnerable newborns.
Addressing the Sociological dimensions of the problem, Justice Siaw Mandela highlighted the complex factors that may lead individuals to abandon their infants.
Citing mental health issues, economic hardships, and social stigma as potential drivers, Mandela called for greater awareness and support for those grappling with such challenges.
Moreover, he underscored the need for comprehensive counseling services for both abandoned children and their caregivers to address potential behavioral consequences, such as a lack of empathy and identity struggles.
Proposing practical solutions to mitigate the crisis, Legal Practitioner, John Agbotey appealed to Government to establish social centers where individuals facing dire circumstances can seek assistance without resorting to abandoning their newborns.
He emphasized that tackling this issue requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society to ensure the well-being of the nation’s most vulnerable members.
Furthermore, Agbotey urged for enhanced sex education and access to family planning services to empower individuals to make informed choices regarding parenthood.
Mr. Agbotey added that, by addressing the root causes of unwanted pregnancies, society can prevent the tragic consequences of newborn abandonment.
He concluded that, it is evident that combating newborn abandonment demands not only legal enforcement but also a holistic approach that addresses the root causes and provides support to those in need.
As stakeholders come together to confront this pressing issue, the hope remains that every child will be afforded the love, care, and protection they rightfully deserve.
