Domestic violence threatens family peace and productivity — Pastor Amongba
Pastor Ebenezer Awine Amongba urges families to reject domestic violence and promote peace, warning of its effects on relationships, children and productivity.
The Chief Executive Officer of Akanyoweh Foundation, pastor and life planner, Ebenezer Awine Amongba, has cautioned individuals and families against domestic violence, stressing that peace is essential for healthy relationships and meaningful living.
According to Pastor Amongba, when peace is absent in a home, other aspects of life can lose their meaning, as domestic violence creates fear, pain and emotional instability that can prevent families from living, communicating and thriving effectively.
Speaking on Voices of Change on Mike FM on Saturday, August 29, he said, “When there is no peace in a home, nothing else seems to make sense.”
He explained that domestic violence encompasses harmful or abusive behaviours, including physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, verbal and financial abuse, used by one person to control or hurt a partner or family member.
Pastor Amongba expressed concern that some families and members of society continue to encourage victims of domestic abuse to “settle the matter at home” because of fear of stigma, concerns about family reputation, cultural beliefs, financial dependence and pressure to preserve marriages.
He described the perception that domestic violence is a private family matter rather than a serious issue as a misconception that must be addressed.
“There is the misconception that domestic violence is a private family matter rather than a serious offence, and we often hear people say, ‘it is like that everywhere.’ This is not the best,” he said.
He further highlighted the wider impact of domestic violence, particularly on children, families and society.
According to him, children exposed to domestic violence may experience fear and trauma, which can contribute to poor academic performance and behavioural problems.
He added that domestic violence can also affect national productivity through stress, poor concentration and reduced work performance.
Pastor Amongba encouraged victims of domestic violence, including men, to seek help and support rather than suffer in silence or feel ashamed because the perpetrator is a family member.
He also urged individuals to live honest and responsible lives, saying building trust within communities would make it easier for people to receive support when they encounter difficulties.
He called on families to treat one another with patience, understanding and wisdom as a means of promoting peace, harmony and peaceful coexistence.
Mike 105.3FM I Navrongo | Cynthia Afaah
