Engaging stakeholders to measure Ghana’s progress on SDG 5.6.2: A qualitative ‘Inquiry Module’ analysis

Background Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, Target 6, aims to ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) rights by 2030. To measure SDG 5.6.2, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) developed the 12th Inquiry Module, a self-reporting survey tool for governments, to collect information on legal enablers and barriers to SRH. Ghana did not meet the original deadline, and this paper describes the multi-stakeholder process undertaken to complete the Inquiry Module in Ghana. Methods Using a cross-sectional design, we conducted key informant interviews and focus group discussions with stakeholders and reviewed national SRH laws, policies, regulations, and other relevant legal documents. Between July and October 2019, the Ministry of Health completed the Module draft; subsequently, we convened key government stakeholders to provide input according to the Module’s requirements. Results Fifteen SRH stakeholders, including representatives from government, UN agencies, and civil society, participated in the process. Overall, Ghana achieved a score of 73 percent on the survey, with individual section scores above 75 percent for sections 1, 2, and 4. Section 3 scored zero, reflecting the absence of specific laws or policies that would act as enablers or barriers in that domain. Conclusions Although submitted late, Ghana successfully completed and delivered the finalized survey to UNFPA. The national SRH legal environment in Ghana demonstrates 73 percent progress toward SDG 5.6.2. Strengthening intersectoral collaboration and information sharing will be essential to enhance SRH monitoring and to accelerate progress toward these targets.