Not All Superheroes Wear Capes: Abena’s Digital Crusade for Ghana’s Children
This article first appeared on March 18, 2025 here at UNICEF and was graciously provided to us.
Abena Dufie Akonu-Atta, a name whispered with respect in the corridors of Ghana’s Department of Social Welfare, isn’t your typical hero. She doesn’t soar through the skies or wield superhuman strength. Instead, her power lies in a quiet determination, a deep well of empathy, and a keen understanding of the digital realm. As the National Case Manager for Ghana’s Social Welfare Information Management System (SWIMS), Abena is rewriting the narrative for vulnerable children across the nation, one meticulously logged case at a time.
Her journey began far from the digital dashboards and complex algorithms of Social Welfare Information Management System. Initially, Abena navigated the structured world of insurance, but her heart yearned for a different kind of impact. “My heart has always belonged to social work,” she reflects, her voice imbued with a quiet passion. She traded spreadsheets for social work, finding her niche within the Department of Social Welfare, where her analytical mind and compassionate spirit flourished.
The Digital Lifeline: How SWIM is transforming child protection
Before Social Welfare Information Management System (SWIMS), the landscape of child protection in Ghana was a tangled web of paper files and fragmented data. Social workers struggled; their efforts hampered by inefficient systems. Then came SWIMS, a web-based lifeline developed with UNICEF’s support. Abena, at its helm, became the architect of change.
“We were struggling,” she admits, recalling the pre-SWIMS era. “Now, SWIMS provides a secure and responsive platform that has revolutionized our approach.” Abena Dufie Akonu-Atta
With a few clicks, caseworkers can generate reports, make referrals, and ensure that no child’s case slips through the cracks. Over 37,000 cases, from child marriage to human trafficking, have been meticulously documented, fostering collaboration between police, health services, schools, and civil society.
Beyond the Data: Abena’s dedication to every child’s case
Abena’s dedication extends beyond the digital interface. She is a vigilant guardian, constantly monitoring for incomplete cases, ensuring that every child receives the attention they deserve. “I proactively flag these incomplete cases and follow up,” she emphasizes, her voice firm. “No child’s case should fall through the cracks.”
Her proudest moment? The successful migration of SWIMS to Ghana’s national servers in 2023, a testament to national ownership and commitment. But Abena’s vision extends further. She dreams of a fully operational SWIMS across all 261 districts by 2027, ensuring that every child in residential care, currently numbering around 3,200, has their case properly documented and managed. “It’s crucial to develop individualized care plans that align with national guidelines for deinstitutionalization,” she asserts, her focus unwavering.
Social work is grounded in fundamental principles such as the best interest of the child, non-discrimination, and confidentiality. Education is essential, but it’s the heart for the work that truly matters.
Abena Dufie Akonu-Atta, National Case Manager for Ghana’s Social Welfare Information Management System (SWIMS)
UNICEF’s unwavering commitment to strengthening Ghana’s social services mirrors Abena’s dedication. Through strategic initiatives focused on legal frameworks, training, and career development, UNICEF is empowering social workers to create a brighter future for every child.
Abena’s story is a testament to the power of passion, technology, and unwavering dedication. She proves that heroes come in many forms, and sometimes, their greatest superpowers are the ability to organize data, empower caseworkers, and ensure that every child’s voice is heard.
