About the Ghana Region

The Ghana Region of the Congregation of Jesus Mary Joseph serves in West Africa through ministries of education, healthcare, social outreach and formation. Ghana, a constitutional democracy with its capital at Accra, became the first sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence in 1957. The Region carries out its mission in partnership with the local Church while promoting the dignity, safety and wellbeing of every person.

Safeguarding Commitment

The JMJ Ghana Region is committed to creating safe environments for children, vulnerable adults and all those entrusted to its care. Safeguarding is integrated into every apostolic ministry through awareness, prevention, education, accountability and appropriate response.

Regional Safeguarding Commission

In July 2024 the Regional Superior, Sr. Sundari Singareddy, constituted the Regional Safeguarding Commission comprising representatives from the Region's communities and ministries. All members completed an online Diploma in Safeguarding Minors and Vulnerable Adults offered through the Institute for Formators in collaboration with the Institute of Anthropology, Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome. During the year leadership transitions resulted in Sr. Evangel Osuji being appointed Regional Safeguarding Coordinator and new members joining the commission.

Major Highlights (2024–2025)

·       Online safeguarding orientation for all sisters and formees (5 May 2025).

·       Session facilitated by Rev. Fr. Francis Abugbire Adagyine on 'The Role of Women Religious in Safeguarding'.

·       Regional Safeguarding Commission oath-taking ceremony.

·       Formation on Ghana's Children’s Act (1998), abuse prevention and safeguarding responsibilities.

·       Awareness programmes on human trafficking and child protection across communities and ministries.

·       Orientation programmes for staff.

·       Preparation of the Ghana Regional Safeguarding Policy and Action Plan.

Community Outreach

Safeguarding awareness programmes were conducted in Asufufu–Sunyani, Attebubu, Sambuli, Mim and the JMJ Formation House at Yeji. These initiatives focused on child protection, prevention of human trafficking, safe environments and promoting a culture of dignity and respect.

Way Forward

The Region will continue strengthening safeguarding through policy implementation, ongoing formation, community awareness, safe recruitment, reporting mechanisms and regular monitoring to ensure that every JMJ ministry remains a safe place for children and vulnerable persons.

Conclusion

Every person has the right to life, dignity and protection. The JMJ Ghana Region remains committed to fostering safe environments where children and vulnerable persons are respected, protected and empowered. Through collaboration, education and accountability, the Region continues to build a culture of safeguarding rooted in the Gospel and the charism of the Congregation.

 

Prepared by-

Regional Safeguarding Commission

Ghana Region