Although Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) has been outlawed in Ghana for more than two decades, the practice continues in some communities, particularly in parts of the Upper West and Upper East regions.
Its hidden cost on the reproductive health of women and children remains significant and deeply concerning.
FGM, widely recognized as a violation of the human rights of girls and women, is still driven by entrenched cultural, social, and religious beliefs. Despite global efforts to eliminate the practice, millions of girls remain at risk each year.
For many survivors, the trauma begins in infancy. Kuurimah Ibrahim was cut when she was just a week old. Now an advocate against FGM, she says the long-term physical and emotional toll is difficult to put into words.
“I didn’t have a choice. I was only a baby, but I have lived with the consequences my entire life. I found out I was different when I went to the secondary school. The pain is not just physical, it stays with you emotionally,” she said.
According to her, the journey as a survivor has not been easy. The stigma coupled with the effects on her life is unimaginable.
“I have felt stigma in many ways. It’s not been easy. We need stronger support systems for survivors and more education to stop this from happening to other girls. Government must support survivors to repair the cuts.” She said.
Health experts warn that women who have undergone FGM face serious complications, particularly during childbirth.
Dr. Felix Abeyifah Bowuo, an urogynecologist, explains that the effects can be lifelong.
“Women who have undergone FGM are at a higher risk of severe bleeding during childbirth, infections, chronic pelvic pain, and menstrual complications. Beyond the physical impact, there is also significant psychological trauma that can persist for years. But it can be repaired at the major hospitals.” He noted.
Child protection agencies report that while Ghana’s national prevalence has declined to about 2.4 percent among women aged 15 to 49, the practice remains prevalent in specific regions.
Dr. Hilda Boye, President of the Pediatric Society of Ghana, says the numbers, though lower, still represent thousands of affected girls.
“Even one case is too many. The persistence of FGM in certain communities shows that we must intensify education and community engagement. Protecting children requires a coordinated effort from families, health workers and authorities.” She said.
FGM was criminalized in Ghana in 1994, with the law strengthened in 2007. However, enforcement continues to face challenges, especially in remote areas where tradition and social norms sustain the practice. Civil society organizations are stepping in to bridge the gap.
Mercy Dakogri, Programs Coordinator at Community Development Alliance Ghana, says grassroots advocacy is key to ending FGM.
“We are working closely with communities to change mindsets and empower women to speak out. Education is critical. When people understand the dangers and the rights of the girl child, they begin to abandon the practice.” She noted
Globally, more than 230 million girls and women across 30 countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia have undergone FGM.
The economic burden is also substantial. The cost of treating FGM-related health complications is estimated at 1.4 billion US dollars annually a figure expected to rise without urgent intervention.
As Ghana continues its fight against FGM, experts say sustained education, stronger enforcement of laws and comprehensive support for survivors will be essential to finally ending the practice.
By Sarah Apenkroh
