PARTNERS UNITE TO END FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION IN GHANA
Stakeholders in Ghana have reaffirmed their commitment to ending Female Genital Mutilation(FGM), a practice that continues to undermine the health, dignity, and human rights of women and girls. Under the theme "Strengthening Alliances, Building Movements: Protecting the Rights and Dignity of Women and Girls," policymakers, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, youth advocates, and survivors gathered to advance a unified strategy to eliminate FGM.
Honourable Naa Momo Lartey (PhD), Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, emphasized the need for collective action, stressing that "ending FGM requires collaboration across multiple sectors, involving policymakers, traditional leaders, religious leaders, civil society organizations, youth, and the media." She further noted, "it demands challenging deep-rooted cultural norms and promoting positive alternatives that uphold the rights and dignity of women and girls. As we mark this day, let us commit to engaging and empowering policymakers to strengthen laws and policies that protect women and girls."
Emmily Naphambo (PhD), Deputy Representative of UNFPA Ghana, highlighted the transformative potential of young people in the fight against FGM. "Young people are powerful agents of change. Their voices, activism, and use of technology and digital platforms are transforming how communities address FGM and shifting mindsets. UNFPA Ghana is committed to empowering youth leaders and supporting survivor-led initiatives, ensuring that those most affected are at the forefront of advocacy efforts." She spoke.
Despite progress, FGM persists in some regions due to deeply rooted cultural traditions.
However, stakeholders remain committed to working together to dismantle these harmful norms.
To achieve the goal of ending FGM, stakeholders must take collective action. This includes strengthening law enforcement, ensuring that existing anti-FGM laws are enforced consistently, and promoting community engagement, encouraging traditional leaders, religious figures, and community influencers to actively campaign against FGM. Additionally, supporting survivors is
crucial, developing and expanding access to healthcare, counseling, and legal support for
survivors of FGM.
By working together, stakeholders can create a Ghana where women and girls are protected from harm and can thrive. The fight against FGM requires a coordinated, multi-sectoral effort, and stakeholders are committed to making this a reality.
