In recent weeks, Ghana’s fight against HIV/AIDS has taken a concerning turn. Apexnewsgh reports
At a launch event for the upcoming World AIDS Day, Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, the Programme Manager for the National HIV and AIDS Control Programme, shared distressing news: 34,000 new HIV infections have been recorded between January and the third quarter of 2024.
This alarming statistic has raised urgent calls for intensified public health efforts as the nation aims to eliminate the HIV epidemic by 2030.
The Ghana AIDS Commission has been at the forefront of combatting the virus, tirelessly working to raise awareness and provide essential services.
During this period, approximately 1.3 million people were screened, playing a crucial role in identifying those affected. Dr. Ayisi highlighted the growing challenge, emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance as the rise in new infections threatens the progress being made towards the 2030 target.
As World AIDS Day approaches, observed annually on December 1, the importance of the day takes center stage once more. This year, the theme, “Take the Rights Path,” is a call to action for all countries to reinforce their commitment to preventing new infections and supporting those living with HIV. Dr. Ayisi stressed the responsibility of sexually active individuals to prioritize their health, underscoring the critical role that condoms play in prevention.
Dr. Atuahene Kyeremeh, Director-General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, echoed these sentiments, reaffirming the Commission’s dedication to partnering with various stakeholders to reach the ambitious 2030 goal. He emphasized the importance of regular screenings and the availability of free treatment options that have been proven effective in managing the virus.
To commemorate World AIDS Day, the Ghana AIDS Commission is set to host a grand durbar in Accra on December 2, 2024.
The event promises to gather representatives from significant organizations, including the Ghana Health Service, the Ministry of Health, UNAIDS, and the National Association of Persons Living with HIV (NAP+), all united in the ongoing effort to combat this public health crisis. As the nation gears up for this pivotal moment, the collective hope is that with renewed commitment and action, Ghana can move closer to a future free from the burden of HIV/AIDS.
