Gender Ministry Calls for Justice for Abused 6‑Year‑Old in Asamankese

Introduction

Recent headlines have highlighted a disturbing incident in Asamankese, Ghana, where a six‑year‑old child was subjected to cruel treatment because of bed‑wetting. The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has publicly condemned the abuse, demanding swift justice and urging authorities to protect vulnerable children. This article unpacks the official statement, explains the medical condition of nocturnal enuresis, outlines Ghana’s child‑protection legal framework, and offers practical guidance for parents, caregivers, and community members. By integrating primary keywords such as “gender ministry”, “child abuse”, “Asamankese”, and secondary terms like “bed‑wetting”, “child welfare”, and “justice for abused child”, the piece is optimized for search visibility and featured‑snippet potential.

Key Points

Official Ministry Statement

The Ministry released a press remark on Monday, 15 December 2025, emphasizing that no child should ever be punished, humiliated, or harmed for behaviour beyond their control. It described bed‑wetting as a medically recognised developmental condition, not a moral failing. The statement called on all relevant government agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, ensure accountability, and prioritise the child’s physical and mental well‑being.

Public Reaction and Media Coverage

Local newspapers, radio stations, and social‑media platforms have amplified the Ministry’s message, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspected abuse. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about caregiver responsibilities, the need for public education on child health, and the enforcement of existing child‑protection statutes.

Background

Understanding Bed‑Wetting (Nocturnal Enuresis)

Bed‑wetting, or nocturnal enuresis, affects roughly 15 % of children aged five to six. It is classified as a physiological condition that often resolves spontaneously but can persist due to factors such as urinary‑bladder immaturity, hormonal imbalances, or stress. The condition is not indicative of disobedience, laziness, or poor parenting. Medical professionals recommend supportive strategies — including fluid management, bladder‑training exercises, and, when necessary, professional counselling — rather than punitive measures.

Legal Framework for Child Protection in Ghana

Ghana’s child‑protection regime is anchored in the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560) and the Child Protection Act, 2016 (Act 815). These statutes prohibit any form of corporal punishment that results in physical or psychological harm. Section 13 of the Children’s Act explicitly states that a child must be safeguarded from “any treatment that is cruel, inhuman, or degrading”. Violations can attract criminal penalties, including fines or imprisonment for perpetrators. The Ministry’s call for justice aligns with these legal provisions, reinforcing the state’s duty to enforce them.

Analysis

Assessment of the Ministry’s Response

The Ministry’s reaction is multi‑faceted. First, it issues a clear condemnation, leaving no ambiguity about the unacceptability of abuse. Second, it demands a coordinated investigative response, signalling to law‑enforcement and child‑welfare agencies that the case must be treated as a priority. Third, it re‑emphasises the importance of public education, suggesting that awareness campaigns can prevent future incidents. By framing the issue within both health and legal contexts, the Ministry strengthens its appeal to diverse stakeholder groups.

Implications for Caregiver Accountability

Caregivers who resort to violence or humiliation jeopardise not only the immediate safety of the child but also risk legal repercussions under Ghanaian law. The Ministry’s emphasis on “collective responsibility” underscores that families, schools, and community organisations share the burden of protecting children. Accountability mechanisms — such as mandatory reporting obligations for teachers and health workers — must be reinforced to ensure that any instance of abuse is promptly documented and addressed.

Practical Advice

How Parents Can Support Children with Bed‑Wetting

1. **Maintain a Calm Environment** – Reassure the child that nighttime accidents are normal and not their fault.
2. **Establish Consistent Routines** – Limit fluid intake before bedtime and encourage a bathroom visit right before sleep.
3. **Use Protective Bedding** – Waterproof mattress covers reduce stress and simplify cleanup.
4. **Seek Professional Guidance** – Pediatricians can evaluate underlying medical causes and recommend behavioural strategies or, if needed, medication.

Steps to Report Suspected Abuse

1. **Contact the Domestic Violence Call Centre** – Dial 0800‑111‑222 for immediate assistance.
2. **Call the Ministry’s Helpline of Hope** – Reach 0800‑800‑800 or 0800‑900‑900 for confidential support.
3. **Visit the Nearest Police Station** – File a written report; officers are required to forward the case to the Child Protection Unit.
4. **Document Evidence** – Preserve any physical signs, witness statements, or medical records that may aid investigations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes child abuse under Ghanaian law?

Under the Children’s Act, 1998, child abuse includes any act that causes physical injury, emotional harm, or neglect. This encompasses corporal punishment that results in injury, confinement, starvation, or any treatment that is “cruel, inhuman, or degrading”. Sexual exploitation, forced labour, and exposure to violent environments also fall within the legal definition of abuse.

Can a child be punished for bed‑wetting?

No. Bed‑wetting is recognised as a medical condition, not a disciplinary issue. Any form of punishment — verbal abuse, physical punishment, or humiliation — targeted at a child for enuresis constitutes child abuse and is punishable under Ghanaian law.

What services does the Ministry offer for victims of abuse?

The Ministry provides a suite of child‑welfare services, including psychosocial counselling, medical examinations, legal assistance, and temporary shelter for children removed from unsafe environments. Additionally, the Ministry collaborates with NGOs and community‑based organisations to deliver rehabilitation programmes aimed at restoring the child’s physical and emotional well‑being.

Conclusion

The Gender Ministry’s call for justice in the Asamankese case reflects a decisive step toward safeguarding children from degrading treatment linked to health conditions such as bed‑wetting. By coupling a strong legal stance with public‑education initiatives, the Ministry seeks to prevent future abuses and to reinforce a culture of accountability among caregivers. Stakeholders — including parents, educators, health professionals, and community leaders — must work collaboratively to create environments where children are protected, supported, and empowered to thrive. Continued vigilance, prompt reporting, and adherence to Ghana’s child‑protection statutes are essential to ensuring that no child suffers the trauma of abuse for reasons beyond their control.