Ghana’s capital city of Accra is home to a thriving, yet largely underground, sex trade.
The study highlights the significant role that ashawo workers play in Ghana’s HIV epidemic, with HIV prevalence among this group ranging from 2.9% in the Upper East Region to as high as 9% in Ashanti and Greater Accra.
Previous analyses have estimated that 12% of new HIV infections in Ghana occur among FSWs, men who have sex with men, and clients of FSWs .
While prostitution is illegal in Ghana, the trade continues to thrive, with numerous “ashawo joints” – slang for sex work establishments – operating openly across Accra.
A review of various media reports has uncovered a long list of these notorious locations and the prices charged by the sex workers [2-5]:
- Ashaiman behind the police station (also known as “18” or “Tsinaagbe”): GH¢20
- Sakumono Titanic beach: GH¢25
- Tema Community 7: GH¢300-550
- Nungua Washing Bay (Abrefi): GH¢20-30
- Labadi Township (maamli) abese: GH¢10-30
- Accra Rawlings Park: GH¢10 flat
- Cantonment (Dadabee Ashawos): GH¢150-300
- Labadi Township ( maami) – 30/40gh
- Osu Castle road -40gh Nungua ( Italian Boy) – 30gh Accra Rawlings – 30gh flat Circle Obra Spot – 50g including hotel East legon Atemuda- 150gh 45 for Bj
- Lapaz Abrante3 Footbridge – 40/50gh
- Circle Railway lines – 30gh
The proliferation of these sex work hubs, despite the legal prohibition, underscores the complex socioeconomic factors that drive many Ghanaian women into the sex trade.
Ghana has 60,049 ashawo workers, according to new study
Poverty, lack of economic opportunities, and gender inequalities are all contributing to the growth of this underground industry.
Addressing the challenges faced by female sex workers in Ghana will require a multi-faceted approach.
This includes increasing access to sexual and reproductive health services, providing alternative livelihood options, and reducing the stigma and discrimination that ashawo workers often face.
Ultimately, Ghana must grapple with the realities of its thriving sex trade and work to protect the health and rights of this vulnerable population.
K Fosu The Informant is a lifestyle blogger with 5 years experience in content and web development. He is a Google keyword planner, SEO analyst, an influencer and entrepreneur who holds BA Degree from Ghana's Premier University.
