FIDA-Ghana Criticises Inadequate 2026 Budget Allocation for Domestic Violence Shelters

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Ghana) has raised a significant alarm over the 2026 National Budget, highlighting a critical funding gap for domestic violence survivors. Following an analysis of the financial provisions under the administration of President John Mahama, the legal advocacy group warned that the current allocation for the Domestic Violence Fund is insufficient to meet the rising health and safety needs of vulnerable individuals across the country. FIDA-Ghana is specifically calling out the lack of dedicated resources for the construction and expansion of safe shelters, which are vital for the mental and physical recovery of survivors who have escaped abusive environments.

According to the group's findings, the Domestic Violence Fund has been allocated GH¢1.6 million for the 2026 fiscal year. This figure represents a significant decline from the peak allocation of GH¢2.7 million seen in 2024, despite the increasing prevalence of domestic abuse cases that require professional medical and psychological intervention. While the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection received a total budgetary allocation of GH¢11.6 million, FIDA-Ghana points out that none of these funds have been specifically earmarked for shelter infrastructure. The organization argues that without physical shelters, many survivors remain trapped in dangerous situations, which exacerbates public health challenges related to domestic trauma and long-term disability.

In response to these shortfalls, FIDA-Ghana has proposed a series of urgent interventions to bridge the gap in survivor care. They are urging both the government and private sector partners to establish a more consistent and sustainable funding model for safe havens. Specifically, the federation recommends increasing the Domestic Violence Fund by at least 30% compared to 2023 levels to account for inflation and the growing demand for specialized health and support services. Furthermore, they are calling for enhanced coordination among various state agencies to ensure that the limited resources available are utilized effectively to protect the lives and dignity of women and children.

The push for increased funding comes at a pivotal time for Ghana's social health and protection landscape under the new government. FIDA-Ghana emphasizes that investing in shelters is not merely a budgetary line item but a fundamental step toward preserving the dignity and human rights of citizens. By failing to prioritize these facilities, the state risks a cycle of recurring violence and long-term psychological consequences for victims. As the 2026 budget undergoes further review by Parliament, the advocacy group maintains that a robust financial commitment is essential for creating a society where survivors can seek refuge, access healthcare, and rebuild their lives in safety.