Kumasi: The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection has condemned the murder of Ms. Joana Yabani, a final-year Biological Sciences student at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). In a recent statement, the Ministry expressed its condolences to the family of Ms. Yabani and assured them of its unwavering support during this difficult time.
According to Ghana News Agency, the statement, issued by the Ministry’s Public Affairs Unit, detailed the remarks of Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the sector minister, who emphasized the need to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in society. Ms. Yabani was tragically found dead on the university campus on February 27, 2025, and preliminary investigations have led to the arrest of a suspect believed to be connected to the crime.
The Ministry’s statement condemned the act and all forms of violence against women and girls. It called for swift and decisive action from law enforcement agencies to ensure justice for Ms. Yabani. The Ministry is actively collaborating with stakeholders such as the police, civil society organizations, and university authorities to enhance preventive measures and support survivors of GBV.
The Ministry also encouraged students to utilize available support systems, including counseling units and law enforcement, and urged the public to actively voice against GBV to foster a safe and protective environment for women and girls.
To facilitate assistance and reporting, the Ministry provided contact details for the Helpline of Hope Call Centre and the Domestic Violence Call Centre, urging the public to use these resources for complaints and inquiries.