Forensic DNA analysis and database governance in Ghana

Abstract

There is limited information about forensic DNA profiling and databasing in Africa. According to the INTERPOL global DNA profiling survey results (2019), 11 out of 53 African countries responded ‘yes’ to the question of whether they deployed DNA profiling (INTERPOL, 2019). Seven of these countries had also set up a DNA database, and two reported that such a database was planned. Twelve other countries responded to the survey but did not authorise the public release of the information provided. This chapter narrates developments in Ghana, one of the 11 African countries that have commenced using DNA profiling in their criminal justice system, but not without critical challenges.