UNICEF Ghana records 51,000 online child sexual abuse reports in 2025

UNICEF Ghana has raised an alarm over a significant surge in child sexual abuse material (CSAM) linked to the country, with more than 51,000 reports recorded in 2025. This figure represents a sharp and concerning increase from 2016, when only 750 reports were documented. The statistics were highlighted during a forum on Child Online Protection, where experts warned that the rapid expansion of internet access in Ghana is being accompanied by heightened risks for minors.

Speaking at the forum, Miho Yoshikawa, a Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF, emphasized that the proliferation of technology has outpaced the implementation of adequate safety measures. The rise in reports indicates that more children are being exposed to exploitation and grooming in the digital space. The forum served as a platform to discuss the urgent need for stronger protection frameworks to counter the distribution of harmful material and ensure the safety of young internet users.

Participants at the event underscored the critical role of digital parenting in mitigating these risks. Experts argued that as children spend more time online for education and social interaction, parents and guardians must be equipped with the tools and knowledge to monitor digital activities effectively. The discussion also called for enhanced cooperation between government agencies, technology providers, and law enforcement to track and remove illicit content more efficiently.

As Ghana continues to integrate digital technology into its national development, UNICEF is advocating for child safety to be prioritized in technological policies. The organization stressed that protecting children from online abuse requires a multi-sectoral approach, including stricter enforcement of existing laws and continuous public education. The forum concluded with a call for sustained investment in child protection infrastructure to create a safer and more secure online environment for the nation's youth.