The Deputy Minority Leader and Chairperson of the Parliamentary Caucus on Population and Development, Patricia Appiagyei, has called for intensified efforts to eliminate obstetric fistula in Ghana as the country marked the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula.

Presenting a statement on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, the Asokwa MP explained that obstetric fistula is often caused by prolonged obstructed labour without access to emergency delivery care.

She described it as a condition that results in a tear or an abnormal opening between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum, leaving affected women incontinent.

Hon. Appiagyei noted that an estimated 12,000 women and girls in Ghana are currently living with the debilitating and dehumanising condition.

She appealed to the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service to expand the country’s fistula repair capacity from the current 200 cases annually to more than 2,000 cases each year.

The Deputy Minority Leader further urged stakeholders, communities and development partners to raise awareness about obstetric fistula, combat stigma, increase the number of repair surgeries and advocate for the dignity and rights of affected women.

She stressed that a collective effort is needed to end the condition and improve the lives of thousands of women and girls affected across the country.

According to her, strengthening access to quality maternal healthcare, expanding treatment services and enhancing public education are critical steps towards eliminating obstetric fistula and ensuring affected women can live with dignity and hope.