The Adaklu District Police Commander, Esther Buakuma, has warned that individuals convicted of rape could face a prison sentence of between five and 25 years under Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
Speaking during an engagement with boys and men at the animal market at Adaklu Waya, Madam Buakuma stressed the need for greater awareness and action to prevent gender-based violence and protect vulnerable members of society.
She explained that under Section 97 of Act 29, rape is a serious offence that attracts a custodial sentence of not less than five years and not more than 25 years.
Madam Buakuma further noted that engaging in sexual intercourse with a girl below the age of 16 constitutes defilement under Section 101 of the Act and carries a prison term ranging from seven to 25 years.
The programme, organised by the Adaklu District Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), aimed to educate and empower participants on adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of gender-based violence. It was funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by the NCCE in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
The Police Commander also highlighted that having carnal knowledge of a close blood relation is an offence under Section 105 of Act 29 and is punishable by a prison term of between three and 25 years.
According to her, perpetrators of sexual and domestic violence come from all segments of society, including judges, doctors, engineers, lawyers, teachers, clergy, and law enforcement officers.
“The offenders include teachers, family members, pastors, co-tenants, boyfriends, classmates, co-workers, and even fathers,” she said.
Madam Buakuma identified several factors that contribute to domestic violence, including lack of self-confidence and assertiveness, low awareness of personal and collective rights, parental neglect, inadequate shelter, poverty, alcohol and substance abuse, and exposure to violence.
She also cautioned against psychological abuse, describing it as a form of violence that erodes a victim’s self-worth and emotional wellbeing.
Madam Buakuma urged men to treat their partners with dignity and respect and to play an active role in promoting peaceful and healthy relationships within their communities.
