Human trafficking and its related crimes constitute some of the gravest human rights violations of our times. It is a crime that causes enormous physical and physiological damage to victims and their families, undermines national cohesion and erodes developmental gains.

Despite the significant efforts made, human trafficking in Ghana still persists and addressing it must be achieved within a collaborative framework amongst the relevant agencies. Part of this framework requires an appropriate understanding of the problem and a clear, coordinated commitment to addressing its root causes.

Thus, the development of this Plan of Action was premised on the active participation and consultation of key stakeholders and it represents a consensus of their views of how to comprehensively combat human trafficking in Ghana. Though trafficking in persons cannot be eliminated within five years, it is our belief that by staying true to the strategies outlined in this plan, we will make significant gains in reducing the incidence of trafficking whilst simultaneously providing enhanced care to victims and sufficient punishment to offenders.

Ghana is committed to a future where the human rights of all our people are upheld and valued equally, and where no individual is a victim of human trafficking. To this end, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, with support from UNICEF is pleased to present the National Plan of Action for the Elimination ofHuman Trafficking in Ghana 2017- 2021. The Government of Ghana along with all stakeholders is committed to the successful implementation of this plan.