A new national report by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has revealed that girls in Ghana face the highest risk of sexual violence at age 15. The brief, released in November 2025, draws on findings from the 2021 Population and Housing Census and the 2022 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. According to the report, 2.2% of women aged 18–29 have ever experienced forced sexual acts, with a shocking majority of cases occurring before they turned 18.
Key Findings From the GSS Report
The GSS brief sheds light on the scale and vulnerability of girls at a crucial stage of their growth.
Most Cases Occur During Childhood
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81.9% of survivors were assaulted before age 18
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Age 15 is the peak age of first forced encounter
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Many cases remain unreported due to fear, stigma or the involvement of trusted adults
Sexual Violence Occurs Across All Backgrounds
The report emphasises that no demographic group is insulated:
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Education level, religion and household wealth offer no protection
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Both rural and urban girls face risks:
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Rural girls report the highest rates before age 18
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Urban young women report higher rates after 18
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Over 50% of survivors live in female-headed households, challenging assumptions about household safety
Perpetrators Are Mostly Known to Victims
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Six in ten perpetrators are individuals familiar to the survivor
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These include relatives, neighbours, partners and other trusted adults
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This contributes to silence, fear and underreporting
Why These Findings Matter
The GSS notes that sexual violence has long-term effects on:
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Education
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Emotional and mental wellbeing
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Future work opportunities
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Social confidence and relationships
The pattern, according to the report, “reveals a national concern with lasting consequences” for Ghana’s young population.
Official Remarks from GSS
Government Statistician Dr Alhassan Iddrisu, who signed the report, called for urgent action across key institutions and communities. He emphasised the need for:
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Stronger law enforcement
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Early detection in schools and health facilities
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Enhanced support systems for survivors
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Focused prevention efforts in high-risk districts
Quote from the brief:
“The evidence points to one conclusion. Sexual violence is a national threat that grows in silence. Protecting girls requires action informed by data, and that action must begin early.”
Steps Ghana Can Take to Address the Issue
While the report highlights the problem, it also provides a foundation for solutions. Key actions include:
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Strengthen community awareness
Encourage open conversations on safety, consent and reporting. -
Improve school-based surveillance
Teachers and counsellors can play a significant role in early detection. -
Enhance law enforcement capacity
Ensure swift investigation and prosecution of offenders. -
Expand support services for survivors
Provide accessible counselling, legal support and medical care. -
Promote child protection systems
Strengthen reporting channels and safe spaces nationwide.
