A journalist who has received an award for a project featuring witchcraft-related stories, Chidozie Ngamegbulam Stephen has noted that witchcraft accusations are tarnishing the Upper East Region’s reputation.
He urged local chiefs to address the issue proactively. “It has come to the point that the people of the Upper East should recognize that these witchcraft accusations are not benefiting our region’s reputation,” he said.
He spoke on A1 Radio’s Equal Voices Programme.
He pointed out that witchcraft accusations have the potential to spark conflicts within communities, driven largely by ignorance and unverified claims.
“Witchcraft accusations have a far-reaching impact because they can initiate conflicts within our community.”
While acknowledging the existence of witchcraft, he criticized individuals who falsely identify supposed witches and exacerbate the problem. He also expressed concerns about the negative impact of early prophets, suggesting that their actions contribute to the harm inflicted on vulnerable populations.
The journalist called on the government to support these vulnerable individuals, who are often the primary targets of such accusations, by allocating a specific budget for their care and implementing protective legislation.
He emphasized, “It is very easy to identify these people in our communities. I believe the Ministry of Gender should take this up.”
Furthermore, he warned that if current trends continue, the future of young girls could be jeopardized, as they might face similar accusations as they grow older.
Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Ghana
