International Day for Street Children: Safe-Child Advocacy sounds alarm on street children crisis in Kumasi, demands urgent policy enforcement

Safe-Child Advocacy is raising concerns about children living on the streets of Kumasi. These children lack education, socialization, and developmental opportunities. They face abuse and harsh treatment without guidance. Many are trapped in poverty and struggle to survive.

The organization urges the government to enforce existing laws for these vulnerable children. On International Day for Street Children, Safe-Child Advocacy engages with victims and stakeholders. They emphasize the need for intentional action against child streetism.

Naima Iliasu is a young woman who left her home in Tamale. She sought a better life but found herself on the streets of Kumasi instead. The reality was harsh, exposing her to risks of abuse.

Naima struggles daily for basic needs while sleeping on the roadside in Adum. She describes her experience as a battle against hunger and harm.

“Living on the street is difficult,” Naima says. “Finding food and shelter is hard.” She feels vulnerable without protection from others who might influence her negatively.

Naima has received support from Safe-Child Advocacy, which provides for her needs. They are also helping her learn dress-making skills, promising a brighter future.

Despite this support, over 20,000 young people roam the streets of Kumasi. Many girls between 8 and 18 become mothers or sex workers. Young boys may turn to armed robbery, putting infants at risk.

Niama’s story highlights the urgent need for help for those affected by streetism. Erica Adutwumwaa Konadu from Safe-Child Advocacy notes that many young people have become breadwinners for their families.

“They fend for themselves while their families rely on them,” she explains. “They see street work as profitable compared to education.”

Rev Sister Olivia Umoh, director of Safe-Child Advocacy, observes family resistance complicating efforts to assist these children.

In honor of International Day for Street Children 2025, Safe-Child Advocacy promotes children's participation in decisions affecting them. They reach out to over one hundred street children daily through campaigns and stakeholder engagements.

Reverend Sister Umoh calls on the government to show political will in addressing this issue. She believes that enforcing existing laws can improve conditions for these children.

“We urge the Ghanaian government to take this seriously,” she states. “Enforcement of our laws is crucial; otherwise, little will change.”

Safe-Child Advocacy operates under the Catholic Archdiocese of Kumasi. The organization focuses on supporting children, youth, and women facing vulnerabilities in Ghana through rehabilitation services like skills training and education support.