The Widows and Orphans Movement (WOM) has provided medical and psychosocial support for a mother and her two daughters in Bawku who were reportedly victims of defilement while, appealing for sustainable livelihood assistance to support the widow’s long-term care of the family.
The intervention, which was carried out in Bolgatanga, included comprehensive medical examinations, counselling services, and medication prescribed by health professionals. The organisation says the immediate priority was to ensure the physical and psychological well-being of the survivors.
Speaking to A1 Radio, the Programmes Coordinator of WOM, Elizabeth Anafo, explained that the support process involved both medical and emotional care, stressing that recovery goes beyond treatment alone.
“All right, so from the last time, the conversation, we needed to bring the woman and the case for some medical examination to ensure that the cases are okay health-wise and psychologically. So far, medically we’ve done what we can. We took them to a gynaecologist and doctors who examined them and gave medications,” she said.
She noted that while the children are still very young and may not fully comprehend the situation, the psychological well-being of the mother remains critical in ensuring proper care and stability at home.
“The psychological impact is not only on the children. The mother must also be supported so she can care for them in a way that does not worsen their trauma,” she added.
According to her, the intervention also included counselling for the mother to help her manage the emotional burden and avoid unintentionally triggering further trauma in the children.
Ms. Anafo indicated that WOM’s support does not end with medical care but extends to long-term recovery needs, including education, feeding, and livelihood empowerment for the widow, who currently has no stable source of income.
“We are also looking at how to support her to establish a small business so she can take care of the children. We are also considering possible school relocation for the children to prevent stigma from their peers,” she said.
She further called on donors, individuals, and organisations to contribute in various forms, including food items, financial support, and professional counselling services to aid the family’s recovery.
According to WOM, the siblings have already undergone two weeks of medical assessment and care, with plans for continued follow-up support.
Ms. Anafo also reiterated the organisation’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victims while advocating for their safe reintegration into society, stressing that holistic recovery requires both protection and sustainable livelihood support for the mother.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
