By: Baba Mohammed Issahak
The members of parliament in Ghana have launched into the state of orphanages and shelter homes in Accra as concerns mount over the welfare of vulnerable children, especially those with special needs.
The Parliamentary Committee on Gender, Children, and Social Welfare, led by its chairperson and Member of Parliament for Krachi West, Hon. Helen Adjoa Ntoso, began an inspection tour this week, visiting several childcare facilities, including Save Them Young Homes, New Life Nungua Children’s Home, and Great Mission International.
The tour began at the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection and is aimed at assessing how well children are being cared for and whether existing programs are meeting their needs.
During their visits to some orphanage homes,
Caregivers at the homes did not hold back in raising alarm bells. Some children, they revealed, have been living in shelters for more than 20 years without access to formal education or vocational training. Many also lack basic healthcare—especially those living with disabilities, autism, or chronic illness.
The Founder of New Life Nungua Children’s Home, Mr Nii Afotey Bortey II, stressed the need for these children to be included in national development initiatives, such as sports and talent development programs, to foster their growth and inclusion.
The chairperson of the committee Hon. Ntoso, visibly concerned after the visits, promised that the Committee would present a detailed report to Parliament and urgent recommendations. She also called on the Department of Social Welfare to address overcrowding and enhance care services immediately.
The Committee’s tour continues through May 23 and is expected to shape key policy reforms aimed at protecting and uplifting Ghana’s most at-risk children.
