Raissa Initiative Advocates Protection for Boys from Abuse

The Raissa Child Protection Initiative (TRCPI) is urging parents and guardians to pay equal attention to boys when it comes to sexual abuse, stressing that boys are also vulnerable and must be equally protected.

The call was made during the launch of a year-long anti-child sexual abuse campaign by the child-focused NGO on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at the Dawu Presbyterian Junior High School in the Eastern Region.

The campaign seeks to create awareness about crimes against children, how children can seek help, and practical ways to reduce their risk of becoming victims.

Addressing the pupils, the Founder of the Raissa Child Protection Initiative, Ms Raissa Sambou, advised children to seek prompt help from parents, teachers, or other trusted adults if they ever find themselves in situations where they could be abused.

She cautioned against the common belief that only girls are affected by sexual abuse, explaining that boys can also be victims and often suffer in silence due to fear, shame, or stigma.

Ms Sambou urged parents and guardians to be intentional about protecting both boys and girls, noting that ignoring the vulnerability of boys leaves them exposed to abuse.

A member of the TRCPI team, Ms Stephanie Birikorang, cautioned pupils against bullying or teasing colleagues who may have experienced abuse, explaining that such actions discourage victims from speaking up and seeking help.

Also present at the event was the Founder of AJ Helps the Needy, Mrs Anita Opoku-Appiah, who urged the pupils to stay focused on their education and desist from making excuses such as hunger or lack of sanitary pads to engage in sexual immorality.

The Headteacher of Dawu Presbyterian Junior High School expressed appreciation to the TRCPI team, noting that such interactions play a critical role in shaping the behaviour and mindset of children.

TRCPI reaffirmed its belief that sensitisation equals prevention and pledged to continue educating children, parents, and communities to ensure that both boys and girls are protected and able to grow in safe and supportive environments.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE