- Africa
Ghanaian Woman who uses faeces, urine to cook for children to undergo psychiatric evaluation in Weija-Gbawe

A disturbing case of child endangerment has sent shockwaves through Ghana after a 56 year old woman confessed to using human excrement and urine as ingredients in meals prepared for her children. The incident, which took place in the Bulemi community within the Weija Gbawe Municipality, came to light after a viral video sparked national outrage and prompted an immediate rescue mission by government officials.
Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, personally visited the family residence to confront the reality of the situation. During this high profile intervention, the mother, identified as Leticia Okine, and her children reportedly confirmed the horrific cooking practices to the Minister. The children have since been prioritized for protection while their mother was taken into custody for medical transition.
Medical professionals have now been tasked with conducting a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to determine if Leticia Okine was suffering from a severe mental health crisis when she committed these acts. This case has ignited a fierce debate across the country regarding the adequacy of mental health surveillance and the speed of child protection services in vulnerable communities.
The Ministry has reiterated its commitment to defending the dignity of the vulnerable, emphasizing that this intervention was necessary to remove the children from a life threatening environment. As the evaluation continues, the Weija Gbawe Municipality remains on high alert while authorities work to ensure that such a profound breakdown in domestic safety never repeats itself.


