The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic building collapse in Accra Newtown, pledging psychosocial support for victims and their families in the aftermath of the disaster.
In an official statement dated March 30, 2026, the sector minister, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and sympathised with those injured or affected by the incident, which occurred on Sunday, March 29.
The collapse, which has already drawn national attention, left multiple casualties and triggered emergency rescue operations involving security agencies and disaster response teams. The ministry described the incident as deeply distressing and emphasised the need for collective support for victims during this difficult period.
“The Ministry has received with deep sadness news of the tragic building collapse in Accra New Town,” the statement said, as it conveyed solidarity with bereaved families and survivors still recovering from the impact.
Beyond expressions of sympathy, the ministry announced concrete steps to assist those affected. Through its Department of Social Welfare, it will in the coming days roll out psychosocial support services aimed at helping victims and families cope with trauma and emotional distress resulting from the incident.
Officials say the intervention will focus on counselling, emotional care and social support systems, particularly for individuals who may have lost relatives or sustained injuries. Such services are increasingly seen as critical components of disaster response, especially in urban incidents where survivors often face long term psychological effects.
The ministry also commended the swift intervention of emergency responders, including personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service, the National Disaster Management Organisation and other agencies, whose coordinated efforts led to the rescue of several individuals trapped under the rubble.
While acknowledging the rescue efforts, the statement drew attention to the broader issue of safety compliance. The ministry underscored the importance of adhering to building regulations and safety standards, noting that such measures are essential in preventing avoidable loss of life.
The Accra Newtown incident has reignited national concerns over the proliferation of uncompleted or poorly maintained structures in densely populated communities. Many such buildings, often abandoned for years, are sometimes repurposed for informal activities without proper safety checks, creating significant risks.
The ministry’s response aligns with its broader mandate of social protection, which includes safeguarding vulnerable populations and responding to emergencies that affect human welfare. Its emphasis on leaving no one behind reflects ongoing efforts to ensure inclusive support systems in times of crisis.
As investigations continue into the cause of the collapse, the focus is gradually shifting toward recovery and support for victims. For many affected families, immediate assistance such as counselling and social intervention will be crucial in navigating the aftermath of the tragedy.
The ministry has reiterated its commitment to promoting the safety and well being of all persons, while working with relevant agencies to ensure that victims receive the care and support they need.
The statement, issued by the Public Affairs Unit of the ministry, adds to a growing number of institutional responses following the incident, as authorities work to address both the immediate consequences and the underlying issues that contributed to the disaster.
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