Amewuga campaign fights human trafficking, child marriage, others at Aflao border

As the world marks July as the Month Against Trafficking in Persons, the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), in collaboration with the Handmaid of the Divine Redeemer Sisters’ Foundation, the International Centre for Safe Migration (ICSM), and other faith-based partners, has launched an advocacy campaign to fight human trafficking, child marriage, and domestic servitude in Aflao and its surrounding border communities.

Dubbed the “Amewuga Advocacy Campaign,” meaning “Human life is valuable” in Ewe, the three-day initiative engaged over 700 students, travelers, community members, and the general public in a series of education, outreach, and media engagements designed to highlight the growing threats of human trafficking and to build community resilience.

In an address at the Aflao Secondary Technical School, Deputy Superintendent of Immigration (DSI) Justice Kodjo Normeshie, who leads the Anti-Human Smuggling and Trafficking in Persons (AHSTIP) Unit at the GIS Aflao Sector Command, warned students not to be deceived by false promises of better lives abroad.

“Some people will come with sweet talk and fake opportunities that do not exist. We are here to tell you the truth — human trafficking is real. And your life matters,” he said.

Speaking with urgency, he added: “We are telling drivers, motor riders, and everyone involved in the migration chain: Amewuga — human life is more precious than money. Let’s protect it.”

“Don’t Trade Your Future for Money” — Rev. Sr. Regina Ignatia Afla Warns

Adding her voice was Rev. Sister Regina Ignatia Afla, Assistant Superior General of the Handmaid of the Divine Redeemer Sisters’ Foundation. She did not hold back as she painted a grim picture of what awaits victims who are lured by traffickers.

“Some girls are forced into child marriage. Others are turned into domestic slaves or trafficked for sex. If they refuse, they are threatened with death, or worse,” she said solemnly.

“You must value your life and identity. Whether you’re from Ghana, Nigeria, or elsewhere, know that where you were born is a gift from God. Don’t chase money and end up losing your life.”

She urged the students to carry the message beyond the school.

“Discuss this with your parents and your friends in other schools. Spread the awareness. Save someone from falling victim.”

On Tuesday, July 15, 2025, DSI Justice Normeshie led a live Ewe-language panel discussion on EWE24 TV in Akatsi. The discussion sensitized viewers on the dangers of human trafficking, child marriage, and domestic servitude, using a culturally relatable format to make the message resonate deeply.

On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the team visited Aflao Secondary Technical School, where over 700 students (360 males and 340 females) participated in a session filled with drama, poetry, and public education. Real-life stories were dramatized to show how traffickers lure victims under the guise of jobs and travel.

“What you saw in the drama is not fiction. It is happening to girls just like you,” DSI Normeshie told the students.

Later that day, campaign flyers were distributed at the Aflao main border, engaging travelers and border workers directly.

On Thursday, July 17, 2025, the campaign wrapped up with a live discussion. The interactive session allowed listeners to ask questions, share concerns, and learn practical ways to avoid becoming victims of trafficking.

Rev. Sister Ignatia emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration.

“We are committed to future partnerships with the AHSTIP Unit to promote justice and provide support for victims. Faith-based organizations must stand as a voice for the vulnerable.”

The Amewuga Advocacy Campaign succeeded in igniting dialogue, raising awareness, and equipping community members to identify and resist the tactics of traffickers.

“This is not a one-time event,” DSI Normeshie said. “We remain committed to continuing this work — because every life matters, and no one deserves to be sold, abused, or exploited.”

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