Ghana’s Death Registration Rate Falls Short
The Births and Deaths Registry has expressed concern over the low number of death registrations in Ghana, with only 55,219 deaths registered against a projected 143,484 for 2025. This disparity highlights the need for increased awareness and action to improve registration rates.
According to Samuel Adom Botchway, Registrar of the Births and Deaths Registry, the low registration rate is a pressing issue that requires attention. The registry has been working to improve registration rates, including plans to digitize national vital statistics.
The Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1965 (Act 301), mandates the registration of all births and deaths in Ghana. However, the current registration rate suggests that many deaths are going unrecorded, which can have significant implications for national statistics and planning.
The Ghana Statistical Service is responsible for producing and publishing death and mortality statistics. Accurate data is crucial for informed decision-making and planning. The Births and Deaths Registry urges the public to register deaths to ensure accurate national statistics.
The low registration rate is not just a statistical issue; it has real-life implications for families and communities. Registration of death is essential for settling estates, claiming benefits, and accessing services.
The registry’s efforts to improve registration rates are crucial for Ghana’s development. The public can play a significant role by registering deaths and contributing to accurate national statistics.
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Author: Korkor Anumu
