Meta, in partnership with the Ghana Police Service, has launched the AMBER Alert programme in Ghana across Facebook, Instagram, and now Messenger — expanding the digital search for abducted children to millions more users.
Why it matters
The expansion of AMBER Alert Ghana to all three platforms marks a significant step in using technology to assist with child recovery efforts.
With Messenger now included, alerts can reach even more people within targeted locations — increasing the likelihood of quickly locating missing children.
“Every minute counts when a child is missing,” said Kojo Boakye, Meta’s VP of Public Policy for Africa, the Middle East, and Türkiye.
By reaching people across Facebook, Instagram, and now Messenger, we are demonstrating the power of technology and Meta’s commitment to partnering with law enforcement agencies and others to help protect children.“
How it works
- When a child under 18 is reported abducted and deemed in imminent danger, and there is sufficient information to share, the Ghana Police Service can trigger an AMBER Alert.
- Meta’s 24/7 Global Security Operations Centre then pushes the alert to users’ Facebook and Instagram Feeds and as a notification on Messenger — geo-targeted to people in the relevant search area.
- Alerts include a photo, description, location of the abduction, and other vital details to mobilize the public.
What they’re saying
“This technology will help us act faster, reach further, and resolve more cases,” said COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, Director-General of the CID at the Ghana Police Service. “It reflects our commitment to innovation, collaboration, and child protection.”
“We’re fully equipped to send prompt alerts and conduct swift, thorough investigations,” added Detective Dunstan Guba, Team Lead of AMBER Alert Ghana.
Zoom out
Ghana becomes the 36th country — and fifth in Africa, following South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, and Morocco — to adopt the AMBER Alert system with Meta.
Originally launched on Facebook in 2015 and extended to Instagram in 2022, the program has assisted in hundreds of child recovery cases globally.
