By Valentia Tetteh
The Parliamentary Select Committee on Human Rights, in collaboration with Amnesty International Ghana, has embarked on a three-day working visit to alleged witches’ camps in the Northern Region to assess living conditions and advocate for the speedy passage of the Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2025, popularly known as the Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill.
Led by its Chairman, Anim Yaw Ernest, the Committee paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Gambaga, Alhaji Tahiru Tia, before proceeding to the Gambaga Witches’ Camp, one of the oldest facilities sheltering women accused of witchcraft.
During the visit, the Committee observed that while the Church of Pentecost provides livelihood support to help alleged witches become economically productive, many residents still face significant challenges. Some women said they cannot adequately care for their families due to restrictions in the camp. In response, the Chief of Gambaga has allocated land to some residents to help them relocate and reunite with their families.
The Committee also noted that shelters within the camp are in a deteriorated state, lack basic amenities and pose safety risks to occupants. Addressing the concerns of the residents, Mr. Anim assured them of the Committee’s commitment to work with civil society groups and the government to facilitate their reintegration into society and reconnect them with their loved ones.
He further emphasized the Committee’s determination to push for the swift passage of the Anti-Witchcraft Accusations Bill, which seeks to criminalize witchcraft accusations and protect vulnerable individuals from abuse.
As part of the visit, the Committee donated a television set and an undisclosed cash amount to support the welfare of the camp’s residents.
The tour forms part of ongoing national efforts to address human rights abuses linked to witchcraft accusations and to promote dignity and protection for victims.
