The National HIV and AIDS Control Programme at the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported over 34,000 new HIV infections between January and the third quarter of 2024, per a story published by graphiconline. The story went on to say that the Programme Manager, Dr Stephen Ayisi Addo, has stressed the critical need for public testing and screening, noting that around 1.3 million people were screened during the period.
Dr. Addo made these remarks during the launch of the 2024 World AIDS Day event, organised by the Ghana AIDS Commission. The ceremony included a candlelight procession to honour those who have lost their lives to AIDS. He expressed concern over the high number of HIV infections reported in the first three quarters of 2024, highlighting that it presents a major challenge to Ghana’s goal of ending the epidemic by 2030.
The Chronicle finds it disheartening to witness such a surge in cases of HIV infections. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for a unified, determined response to prevent further escalation of the epidemic.
At a time when Ghana has committed to ending the HIV epidemic by 2030, such high numbers of new cases pose a significant threat to reaching that goal and call for a reassessment of current prevention, testing, and treatment strategies.
Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, the Programme Manager for the National HIV and AIDS Control Programme, noted that over 1.3 million people were screened in 2024 alone, highlighting the scale of public testing efforts. However, despite these measures, thousands of Ghanaians continue to contract HIV, raising questions about the factors driving this resurgence.
The increase in HIV cases is surprising and concerning, particularly given the strides made in recent years to improve awareness, increase testing, and expand access to antiretroviral treatments.
The Chronicle urges sexually active individuals to take proactive steps to protect their health and the importance of consistently and correctly using condoms to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Those living with HIV have to take their treatment seriously to prevent further transmission.
As HIV/AIDS becomes less visible in media and public discourse, younger generations may lack the same sense of urgency about preventive measures. Misconceptions about HIV transmission, alongside stigmatisation of those living with HIV, may discourage people from seeking information, testing, or treatment. Moreover, many people may still be unaware of the continued importance of consistent condom use and faithful partnerships in reducing their risk of infection.
Young people who represent a growing demographic of new infections must be a focal point in public health strategies. Awareness programs that use social media, schools, and local youth centers can be highly effective in reaching this audience.
Additionally, sexual health education that includes comprehensive information on condom use, safe sex practices, and HIV transmission needs to be a fixture in secondary schools, colleges, and communities. Youth-friendly spaces where young people can freely access HIV testing and counseling without fear of judgment or stigmatization should be prioritized.
Also, stigma remains a major barrier in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Ghana, preventing many from seeking the testing and treatment they need. Despite advances in medical treatment and knowledge, many Ghanaians still view HIV as a moral failing rather than a health condition, which results in discrimination against people living with HIV.
Fear of ostracisation leads many individuals to avoid testing and hide their diagnosis, thereby inadvertently increasing the spread of the virus.
For us to make substantial progress toward ending the HIV epidemic, we suggest that communities need to foster environments that support open dialogue and reduce shame associated with the virus. Public figures, religious leaders, and community advocates can play a pivotal role in changing the narrative around HIV.
Initiatives that openly discuss living with HIV, such as featuring stories of people thriving while managing the virus, can help reduce stigma and create a more supportive environment for those affected.
The road to reducing HIV infections in Ghana will require a sustained, coordinated effort from every sector of society, including health organizations, educational institutions, community leaders, and individuals.
We call on government agencies to continue investing in HIV prevention and treatment programs. Public health officials must be held accountable for ensuring that the infrastructure supporting these efforts remains intact, effective, and responsive to emerging challenges.
