By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyete
A wave of anger and heartbreak has swept across Ghana’s social media platforms following revelations about the alleged sexual abuse and tragic death of 16-year-old footballer, Ransford Owusu Ansah. The story, now trending widely under the hashtag #JusticeForRansford on TikTok, has ignited nationwide conversations about the safety of children in sports academies and the accountability of those entrusted with their care.
Ransford, who was under the supervision of his coach, Ibrahim Anyass, at the Siano Soccer Academy in Amasaman, reportedly suffered years of sexual abuse unknown to his mother. According to the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP), preliminary findings suggest that the young athlete had endured abuse over a three-year period before succumbing to related medical complications earlier this year at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).
The Ministry’s official statement, released on Thursday November 7, 2025 confirmed that the Ashanti Regional Directorate of Gender promptly launched an investigation and engaged all relevant stakeholders, including the victim’s family. The Siano Soccer Academy has since suspended the accused coach and temporarily shut down its operations to assist ongoing inquiries.
Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection emphasized that “crime has no expiration” and assured the public that the Ministry remains committed to ensuring justice for Ransford and his family.
Since the incident came to light, social media users, activists, and child rights advocates have united online, sharing emotional tributes and demanding tougher laws to protect minors in sports institutions. The #JusticeForRansford campaign has quickly evolved into a broader call for reform, with many urging the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to enforce stricter background checks, monitoring, and safeguarding measures for coaches and academy managers.
The Ministry noted that it had earlier engaged the GFA to strengthen accountability within the football sector and enhance child protection protocols. Following the engagement, the Siano Soccer Academy was directed to suspend all activities while investigations continue.
The case has since been transferred from the Amasaman Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) to the Homicide Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for further investigation.
In a statement, the Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to upholding the welfare, dignity, and rights of every child in Ghana, working through agencies such as the Department of Gender, Department of Social Welfare, and the Orange Support Centre.
As public outrage grows, citizens are being urged to report any suspected cases of child abuse or violence to the Domestic Violence hotline 0800-111-222 or visit the nearest Social Welfare or DOVVSU office.
While the nation mourns the loss of a promising young talent, the cry for justice both online and offline remains loud and unyielding: “#Justice for Ransford.”
