ActionAid Ghana and its youth movement, Activista Ghana, have secured a significant victory in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence following the conviction and sentencing of a 48-year-old man for defiling a 14-year-old girl.
The Tamale High Court presided over by His Lordship Justice Charles Kwesi Acheampong, sentenced Abdallah Mohammed to 15 years imprisonment with hard labour after finding him guilty of defilement. The court further imposed an additional six-month prison sentence for perjury after establishing that the convict had provided false testimony under oath during the trial.
The ruling represents the outcome of years of advocacy, legal support, and community engagement efforts by ActionAid Ghana and Activista Ghana aimed at protecting women and girls and ensuring access to justice for survivors of abuse.
A central issue during the trial was the age of the survivor. While the accused claimed the victim was 18 years old, the prosecution maintained that she was 14 years old at the time of the offence. After examining testimonies from the survivor and her guardian, alongside evidence from previous court proceedings, the court ruled that the prosecution had proven beyond reasonable doubt that the victim was a child when the offence occurred.
Although the accused was acquitted on a separate abortion charge due to insufficient evidence, the court found the evidence presented on the defilement charge compelling enough to secure a conviction.
Reacting to the judgment, John Nkaw, Country Director of ActionAid Ghana, described the ruling as a major victory for child protection and justice.
“This ruling sends a strong message that violence against girls and children has no place in our society and that perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions. We commend the courage of the survivor and everyone who supported her through the justice process. At ActionAid Ghana, we remain committed to ensuring that every girl has access to protection, justice, and the opportunity to live free from violence and fear. This conviction demonstrates that when communities, civil society organisations, law enforcement agencies, and the judiciary work together, justice can prevail.”
Also commenting on the outcome, Justin Bayor Esq., Head of Programmes, Campaigns and Innovation at ActionAid Ghana and Beatrice Biije, Regional Programme Manager, noted that the verdict highlights the value of survivor-centred legal support and sustained advocacy.
“This outcome is a testament to the power of persistence, collaboration, and a justice system that places the rights of survivors at its centre. For years, ActionAid Ghana has worked alongside communities, legal practitioners, and partners to ensure that survivors of sexual and gender-based violence are not denied justice.”
ActionAid Ghana noted that the case underscores the urgent need to strengthen child protection systems, expand access to legal aid, and provide psychosocial support to survivors throughout the justice process.
Speaking on behalf of Activista Ghana, the Executives, Rayan Iddi Yusif( Former NR coordinator- Activista), Nyadia Hamza (Programmed Lead- Activista), Issahaku Abdul- Latif( Immediate past coordinator, Activsta) and Hamdan Amadu(Coordinator Activista NR), described the judgment as a victory for survivors and a reminder of the critical role young people play in demanding justice and accountability.
“This conviction sends a clear message that abuse against girls and children will not go unchallenged. As young people, we have a responsibility to speak out against all forms of violence and support survivors in their pursuit of justice. We commend the bravery of the survivor and the commitment of all those who worked tirelessly to ensure accountability in this case. Activista Ghana will continue to mobilise and empower young people to challenge harmful practices and raise awareness on child protection.”.
ForActivista Ghana, the ruling reinforces the impact of youth-led advocacy in advancing the rights, safety, and protection of girls and young women. The movement has consistently mobilised young people to challenge harmful social norms, speak out against abuse, and demand accountability for gender-based violence.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the Ghana Police Service, particularly the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), the Office of the Attorney-General, healthcare professionals, social welfare officers, and all other partners who provided critical support and professional assistance throughout the process. Their commitment to justice, child protection, and survivor support was instrumental in securing this outcome. This case demonstrates the importance of coordinated action and collaboration among state institutions, civil society organisations, and communities in protecting the rights and dignity of children.
While welcoming the judgment, ActionAid Ghana and Activista Ghana are calling on government institutions, traditional authorities, civil society organisations, and community members to intensify efforts to prevent child sexual abuse, support survivors, and ensure that every child can access justice and protection.
As a social justice organisation, we wish to reaffirm our commitment to working with communities and partners to build a Ghana where women and girls can live free from violence, fear, and discrimination.
