53,415 adolescent girls pregnant in Ghana in first half of 2026 – GHS data
A total of 53,415 adolescent girls became pregnant in Ghana during the first six months of 2026, according to data released by the Ghana Health Service (GHS).
The figures have raised concerns about teenage pregnancy and the need for stronger interventions to protect young girls and improve their sexual and reproductive health.
The Programme Manager of the Alliance for Reproductive Health Rights (ARHR), Isaac Nyampong, described the situation as a serious national concern requiring the collective efforts of parents, teachers, religious leaders, traditional authorities and government.
He made these remarks during a one-day training programme organised by ARHR in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Canada for 20 selected journalists from the Bono and Bono East regions.
Mr Nyampong noted that Ghana continued to record more than 100,000 teenage pregnancies annually, describing the situation as unacceptable.
He stressed that the media had a crucial role in educating the public, highlighting adolescent health challenges and promoting discussions on preventing teenage pregnancies.
He further identified inadequate parental guidance, cultural and religious barriers to sexual health discussions, and violence against girls as some of the factors contributing to the problem.
Mr Nyampong called for parents to be empowered to have open, age-appropriate conversations with their children about sexual and reproductive health.
He also urged religious leaders, chiefs and queenmothers to support public education while encouraging boys and men to respect girls and women and desist from abusive behaviour.
He emphasised that addressing teenage pregnancy required a collective approach involving families, schools, communities and relevant institutions.
