The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has urged victims of domestic violence, gender-based violence and other forms of abuse to speak out, seek help and report incidents to the appropriate authorities rather than suffer in silence. The Ministry stressed that abuse is never the fault of the victim and should never be accepted as a normal or unavoidable part of any relationship.
The appeal follows the circulation of videos and images on social media reportedly involving Ghanaian fashion icon Nana Akua Addo and her child. Some of the footage appears to show Ms Addo with visible injuries allegedly sustained during a physical altercation, while separate footage purportedly shows her child being subjected to physical violence.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, the Ministry said it was deeply concerned about the reports and images circulating online and reiterated that violence in all its forms must neither be normalised nor excused. “Abuse is never the fault of the victim and silence only emboldens perpetrators,” the Ministry stated. It urged victims, as well as anyone with credible information about a person who may be at risk, to report such cases to the nearest police station or Social Welfare office.
The Ministry emphasised that no relationship, domestic situation, disagreement or perceived provocation can justify violence or abuse. It noted that the Domestic Violence Act, 2007 (Act 732), provides a legal framework for protecting individuals from domestic violence, while the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), provides for the protection and welfare of children.
However, the Ministry said the full facts and circumstances surrounding the reported incidents involving Ms Addo and her child were still being established. It said it was closely monitoring developments and taking steps to ascertain the well-being and safety of those involved, as well as determine the appropriate interventions.
The Ministry also appealed to the public to refrain from sharing graphic videos, personal information and unverified claims relating to the woman and her child. It warned that the continued circulation of such material could cause further distress and exposure for those involved, particularly the child.
Victims and members of the public seeking assistance can contact the Domestic Violence Secretariat Call Centre on 0800-111-222 or via WhatsApp on 055 175 7575. The Helpline of Hope Call Centre can be reached on 0800-800-800 or 0800-900-900.
