Editorial
Stop female genital mutilation now
It is so surprising and sad that certain practices that degrade the dignity of women and girls still persist in this sophisticated, tech¬nological age.
Some traditionalists still uphold certain beliefs and practices that affect the rights of women and girls despite the various interventions by advocates.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is one of these practices, and it has been prevalent for a long time in Ghana, particularly in the north.
FGM refers to treatments that in¬volve the partial or complete remov¬al of the external female genitalia or other harm to the female genital organs for cultural or other unrelat¬ed, non-medical reasons.
FGM, typically performed on girls between infancy and age 15, under¬mines their rights. It is barbaric, de-structive and diminishes the dignity of women and girls.
It is so distressing that some traditional and tribal beliefs support FGM in Ghana. While some think it promotes a woman’s cleanliness and faithfulness, others view it as a necessary part of raising a girl and a way to prepare her for adulthood and marriage.
The dilemma is how such a primi¬tive approach can be used to control a girl’s sexuality in order to promote premarital virginity and marital faithfulness.
The Spectator demands the aboli¬tion of FGM and condemns the prac¬tice in its entirety. We think that no cultural, religious, or traditional beliefs should be used to support the harmful practice of FGM, which af¬fects the health of women and girls.
According to data from the World Health Organisation (WHO) more than 200 million girls and women alive today have experienced FGM in 30 countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia where FGM is still practised.
Although FGM has been practised for more than a thousand years, it is encouraging to know that partner¬ships between the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have seen significant achievements.
According to a 2021 Annual Report on FGM, over six million girls and women got prevention, protec¬tion, and care services connected to FGM through these interventions, and about 45 million people made public commitments to stop FGM.
Additionally, 532,158 females were spared from having FGM.
However, more needs to be done in terms of advocacy and raising awareness because the practice cannot be eradicated in a single generation.
Coordinated and systematic efforts are required to promote the abolition of FGM. These efforts must involve entire communities to con¬centrate on human rights, gender equality, sexual education, and pay attention to the needs of women and girls who experience its effects.
In order to promote awareness, change attitude, and stop harmful traditional practices, NGOs must also collaborate with girls, parents, community leaders, government officials and other stakeholders.
To assist the UN’s efforts to com¬pletely eradicate FGM by 2030, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 5, we urge supporters to step up their efforts to make FGM a thing of the past.
Dear Editor,
I WRITE to draw the attention of NADMO and other related agencies to the recent prediction by the Ghana Meteorological Agency to expect a lot of rains this year, especially in the Southern sector of the country.
GMet issued the forecast to provide an early warning to protect lives and property.
Interestingly, the Southern sector happens to be one of the many trouble spots in the country when the rains start.
It predicted the season to start in March and continue until July or August with above-normal rainfall along the eastern coast and nearby inland areas, including Accra, Tema, Cape Coast, Saltpond, Asamankese, Akim Oda, Koforidua, and Kade.
Knowing the problems faced as a country, concerns have been raised in certain quarters about the aftermath flooding problems in low-lying areas.
These concerns are well placed because flooding has become an annual ritual associated with the season.
My appeal goes to NADMO as well as the district and metropolitan assemblies. They are responsible for activities before and after the season.
As we prepare, they must spearhead the campaign to desilt the drainages in order for water to flow freely.
The citizenry must also show some sense of responsibility by desisting from throwing rubbish into gutters to block the free flow of water.
Noah Musa,
Adabraka
Dear Editor,
I WOULD like to express my views on why some people abuse leaders on social media platforms.
In recent times, social media has become a powerful tool for communication and expression. Unfortunately, many people misuse this freedom by insulting and abusing leaders instead of engaging in constructive criticism.
One major reason for this behaviour is frustration. When citizens feel ignored, unemployed, or affected by poor policies, they sometimes turn their anger toward leaders online.
Another reason is anonymity. Social media allows users to hide behind fake names and profiles, which gives them the confidence to say things they would not dare say in public. This lack of accountability encourages abusive language and disrespectful comments.
Ignorance and misinformation also play a role. Some people abuse leaders based on false news or rumours without verifying facts. This leads to unnecessary attacks that can damage reputations and create tension in society.
While leaders should be held accountable, abuse and insults do not solve problems. Too many people are finding social media platforms as homes to hide and churn out untruths that goes a long way to damage the image and credibility of the victims.
Constructive criticism, dialogue, and lawful channels are better ways to express dissatisfaction. Citizens must remember that respect is essential for national unity and development.
I hope this letter will encourage people to use social media responsibly and promote respectful communication.
Eugene Ampiaw,
Takoradi
