The most recent health survey carried out by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has raised concerns as Ghana is now categorized among countries experiencing a rapid increase in HIV infections.
Alarming statistics from the 2022 national and sub-national HIV/AIDS estimates and projections reveal a total of 16,574 new HIV infections in the country. Among these, 10,927 cases were reported among females and 5,647 among males.
Dr. Kyeremeh Atuahene, the Director General of the Ghana Aids Commission, attributes this classification to a surge in new infections.
In an interview with JoyNews on January 31, Dr. Atuahene highlighted the contributing factors to the spread, pointing specifically to individuals involved in same-sex marriages—an activity considered illegal in Ghana. He emphasized that the criminalization of such activities has hindered affected individuals from seeking essential treatment.
“The people who contribute a significant amount of new infections in the country are criminalized; men who have sex with men, sex workers, people who inject drugs, their activities are criminal in the country,” Dr Atuahene emphasized. He highlighted the resultant underground nature of these high-risk groups, hindering their access to crucial HIV prevention and treatment services.
In the midst of the escalating HIV crisis, Dr. Atuahene unveiled plans to enlist influential figures in society to enhance awareness about HIV and AIDS.
He underscored a crucial gap, noting the absence of active participation by high-profile Ghanaians living with HIV in campaigns against stigma.
Dr. Atuahene suggested that involving business executives, celebrities, sports personalities, traditional authorities, and even priests could play a significant role in diminishing the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV.
Given the urgency of the situation, there is a pressing need for prompt and targeted measures to curb the increasing number of new HIV infections and prioritize the well-being of at-risk populations in Ghana.