Amnesty International Africa has initiated a campaign to combat the harsh treatment of women accused of witchcraft in Ghana.
In many African countries, societal perceptions often stigmatize women based on age, wealth, or success. In northern Ghana, hundreds of grandmothers and mothers live in exile, facing accusations simply for being widowed, outspoken, or elderly. Some are banished following family disputes, deaths, or even dreams, and many live in makeshift camps without access to clean water, medical care, or basic safety. In some cases, families exploit these accusations to seize property, while existing laws offer no protection for the victims.
The campaign calls on Ghanaian authorities to criminalize witchcraft accusations, emphasizing the urgent need to protect these vulnerable women.
A statement from Amnesty International Africa reads:
“Branded as witches. Banished. Abused. Hundreds of women in Ghana are suffering due to harmful witchcraft accusations. It’s time to end this injustice. Stand with them. Sign the petition now.”
The issue has also sparked attention in Namibia, where authorities have been urged to review colonial-era laws to better protect elderly citizens from similar accusations and abuse.
