Surrogacy, once stigmatized and hidden from public discussion, has now emerged as a legitimate option for both aspiring parents and women seeking financial stability.

This practice involves a third party, known as a surrogate mother, carrying and delivering a child on behalf of intended parents who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves.

One such surrogate mother, who chose the pseudonym Adjoa, shared her experience in a TV3 news report.

Having relocated from Kumasi to Accra in search of better opportunities, Adjoa explained that she is aware of the arrangement and is comfortable carrying a child for another family, even if she may not have the chance to see the child after birth.

The compensation for surrogate mothers in Ghana varies, with factors such as medical expenses, living costs, and compensation for the surrogate's time and effort taken into account. While the financial aspect may provide stability for surrogate mothers, the emotional and ethical considerations of carrying a child for another family are significant.

Overall, the legalization of surrogacy in Ghana has opened up new possibilities for individuals struggling with infertility, while also presenting surrogate mothers with an opportunity to support themselves financially. However, navigating the complexities of surrogacy requires careful consideration of both the benefits and challenges involved for all parties concerned.

“I don't have a problem. At least there is a family out there who needs a baby and they are ready to have this baby because they are in need. I never really grew up with a family and so if there is someone out there and is ready to spend a lot of money to have a baby and I have the power to make that possible for them, I don't have a problem with that,” she stated.

Adjoa, the surrogate mother, revealed that she expects to receive compensation ranging from GH¢30,000 to GH¢50,000 for carrying a couple's child. However, this amount does not include the costs associated with her accommodation and feeding throughout the duration of the pregnancy.

“I think for me, it is an opportunity. I don't have to follow men, or sleep with them for money. The money aspect of it is very important. At least at the end of the pregnancy, I can get some capital to start something” she added.

In Ghana, surrogacy is not prohibited by law. Act 1027 of the 1992 constitution recognizes surrogacy as a legal arrangement, allowing individuals to engage the services of a surrogate mother to assist with childbirth.

Act 1027 defines surrogacy as:

(a) an arrangement where an embryo formed from the egg and sperm of persons other than that of a surrogate mother and her partner or husband is implanted into the surrogate mother; or

(b) where a gamete is introduced into a surrogate mother to fertilise the egg of the surrogate mother, for the purpose of enabling the surrogate mother carry the foetus and give birth on behalf of the Intended Parents[1] (i.e. the person who desires to be a parent through surrogacy or any other assisted reproductive birth arrangement).