Gender Ministry Takes Custody of Abandoned Newborn
Infant found near Bronyibima Estate in Elmina is in stable condition as police launch investigations to trace mother.
- The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection has taken temporary custody of the newborn, who is stable and receiving medical care
- The Ghana Police Service is working with Social Welfare to identify and locate the baby’s mother or relatives
- The Ministry is encouraging parents facing crisis pregnancies to access social welfare support instead of resorting to child abandonment.
The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has assumed temporary custody of a newborn baby discovered abandoned near Bronyibima Estate in Elmina in the Central Region.
In a statement released on Thursday, February 19, 2026, the Ministry confirmed that the infant—estimated to be about a day old at the time of rescue—is in stable condition and currently receiving medical attention. Officials say the baby is responding positively to treatment.
The Ministry disclosed that officers from the Department of Social Welfare have stepped in to ensure the child’s immediate protection and care while further steps are taken.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare, has launched investigations to trace the mother or any relatives connected to the child.
Authorities emphasized that safeguarding the baby’s welfare remains the foremost priority. Temporary arrangements have been made to guarantee proper care as investigations proceed.
The Ministry also praised residents who rescued the child and appealed to the public to volunteer any information that could assist law enforcement efforts.
Additionally, the Ministry urged parents and guardians experiencing difficulties—especially in cases involving unplanned or crisis pregnancies—to seek help through social welfare agencies instead of abandoning children.
Members of the public are encouraged to access support through the Helpline of Hope Call Centre on toll-free numbers 0800-800-800 and 0800-900-900 for counselling, guidance, or to report concerns involving children and other vulnerable individuals.
The Ministry reiterated that child abandonment constitutes a grave violation of children’s rights and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting vulnerable children across the country.
