The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has expressed deep concern over the increasing prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Ghana, despite years of effort and progress in curbing the spread of the virus. Apexnewsgh reports
Minister Nelson described the situation as a “matter of great concern” and emphasized the need for renewed seriousness and urgency in addressing the pandemic.
During a meeting with the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) at the Western Regional Coordinating Council, Minister Nelson stressed that Ghana has made significant strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS, but signs of complacency among stakeholders threaten to roll back progress. “This country has suffered for many years in the fight against HIV/AIDS,” he said. “We need to keep our focus and intensify the campaign. The current statistics in the Western Region are alarming. It’s scary, and we must act now.”
The Western Region has a higher prevalence rate of 1.82% compared to the national rate of 1.53%. According to the Ghana AIDS Commission’s 2022 data, the region has 23,904 people living with HIV. The national prevalence rate is based on data from the World Bank, indicating that 1.53% of Ghana’s population aged 15-49 lives with HIV.
Minister Nelson commended the Acting Director-General of the GAC, Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, for his proactive leadership and pledged full support to the Commission’s activities in the region. He urged health workers and key actors to introduce innovative strategies and operational improvements in the campaign to bring about positive change.
Dr. Akanbong highlighted inadequate funding for focal persons as a major challenge and appealed to Minister Nelson to help mobilize support from local Assemblies, especially in high-risk areas. He also identified illegal mining (Galamsey) as a significant contributor to the rising prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the Western Region, citing the influx of workers and associated social behaviors as key factors.
The GAC is mandated to coordinate the national response to HIV/AIDS, mobilize resources, and provide accurate data on the disease. Minister Nelson and Dr. Akanbong emphasized the need for sustained efforts to maintain and build upon progress achieved so far.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
