Sports journalists have been cautioned to be extra vigilant as cases of human trafficking within the sports sector continue to increase.
The warning was given by the Director of the Human Trafficking Secretariat at the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Abena Annobea Asare, at a media training held on April 15, 2026, at the IOM Head Office, 9 Volta Street, Airport Residential Area, Accra.
Speaking at the event, Madam Asare explained that many young athletes are lured with promises of securing professional contracts abroad, only to end up being exploited.
She noted that victims are often subjected to harsh conditions, including forced labour and, in some cases, sexual exploitation.
According to her, human trafficking does not only occur across borders but can also happen within the country, making it a serious and widespread concern.
Madam Asare further indicated that traffickers take advantage of people’s trust and desire for better opportunities, especially among the youth.
She therefore urged journalists to be mindful of the kind of advertisements and opportunities they promote, stressing that unverified information could expose individuals to danger.
“Media practitioners must be careful not to serve as a link between traffickers and unsuspecting victims,” she cautioned.
Participants were also educated on emerging tactics used by traffickers, including the use of digital platforms and online scams to recruit victims.
The training forms part of ongoing efforts to equip media professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to help tackle human trafficking in sports in Ghana.
