Ghana to tackle Female Genital Mutilation with new Inclusive Data Initiative

Ghana's efforts to combat Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) are set to receive a significant boost with the launch of a new data-driven project aimed at improving the accuracy and inclusivity of data on the practice.

The project, which focuses on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5.3.2—measuring the proportion of girls and women aged 15-49 who have undergone FGM—was discussed today at the Ghana Stakeholder Consultation on FGM in Accra.

The Acting Director of the Demography Directorate at the Ghana Statistical Service, Godwin Odei Gyebi highlighted the importance of the initiative in his opening remarks. He emphasized the need for inclusive data practices to ensure that marginalized communities are not overlooked in policy-making.

The project, part of a broader global initiative led by the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data (GPSDD) and APC-Colombia, aims to fill critical data gaps through the use of citizen data, particularly in selected districts in northern Ghana where FGM remains prevalent.

"Effective data collection is essential for generating the evidence required to advocate for those most affected," Gyebi stated. He underscored that the project’s success hinges on the collaboration of all stakeholders involved in the fight against FGM. The consultation aims to foster a shared understanding of the project’s objectives and gather insights to ensure its success.

The project which will span 2024 and 2025, began with a high-level kick-off at the United Nations Statistical Commission in February, followed by national consultations, training sessions, and the development of specific use cases. By 2025, the project will implement these use cases, share progress through peer exchanges, and culminate with the publication of the Inclusive Data Playbook, which will include case studies and training content.

On her part, Ms. Kelis Moreno, the Counselor of Foreign Affairs, Embassy of Colombia, Ghana, said Colombia was delighted to be part of the collaborators of the project.

The initiative represents a critical step forward in Ghana's ongoing efforts to eliminate FGM, with the ultimate goal of influencing future policy and ensuring that every girl and woman in the country is protected from this harmful practice.