The President of the Ghana HIV and AIDS Network (GHANET), Ernest Amoabeng Ortsin, has called on the government to support the National HIV and AIDS Fund.
This appeal comes as Ghana observes World AIDS Day 2024.
According to Ortsin, despite the misconception that HIV/AIDS is no longer a threat, statistics indicate otherwise.
In 2023, 12,500 people died from HIV/AIDS, while 35,000 new cases were reported between January and September 2024.
These numbers underscore the need for continued awareness and support.
GHANET, a leading civil society organization in the fight against HIV/AIDS, over the weekend organised a Health Walk and AIDS Rally in partnership with political parties. The event aims to create awareness about HIV/AIDS and advocate for government support.
Mr. Ortsin emphasized that the National HIV and AIDS Fund is currently empty, relying on support from the Global Fund. However, with the Global Fund’s eventual withdrawal, Ghana’s HIV/AIDS response will be severely impacted.
GHANET is urging the government to support the National HIV and AIDS Fund, ensuring the continued provision of life-saving medications and prevention activities.
This support is crucial in achieving the 2030 global targets to eliminate HIV and AIDS in Ghana.
In a speech read on his behalf, Dr Patrick Kumah-Aboagye, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, emphasised the need for an effective policy shift to benefit millions of Ghanaians.
Dr Kuma-Aboagye stressed that prompt import clearance of donor-financed commodities is crucial in saving lives and improving health outcomes.
The Director-General noted that the absence of prompt tax waivers on donated health commodities undermines the purpose of these contributions.
He called on all political parties to support this measure, ensuring donated resources reach those in need without delay.
Dr Aboagye also highlighted the need for expedited clearance of HIV commodities from ports, citing the disruption of essential services and stockouts. Streamlining clearance processes would prevent these issues and ensure timely access to lifesaving treatments.
Furthermore, Dr Aboagye expressed support for Ghana’s hosting of the 23rd International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) in 2025. This event will bring together global leaders, researchers, and healthcare professionals to combat HIV/AIDS, STIs, and other diseases.
By hosting ICASA 2025, Ghana will demonstrate its commitment to advancing HIV and STI prevention and treatment, showcasing its achievements and attracting international partnerships and investments.
Dr. Kyeremeh Atuahene, Director General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, speaking at the rally grounds emphasized the need for collective action to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Ghana. According to Dr. Atuahene, over 98% of Ghanaians are HIV-negative, and the Commission’s focus is to keep this majority negative while ensuring that those living with HIV receive free life-saving prevention, treatment, and care services.
Dr. Atuahene stressed that HIV is not an airborne disease and that contraction requires deliberate actions. He emphasized that unprotected sex is the primary mode of transmission, accounting for the majority of new infections.
The Ghana AIDS Commission is working to increase awareness and education about HIV/AIDS, particularly among high-risk groups. The Commission’s efforts include providing free HIV testing and treatment services, as well as promoting condom use and safe sex practices.
Dr. Atuahene’s remarks come as Ghana observes a month-long awareness campaign to combat HIV/AIDS. The campaign aims to promote education, awareness, and community involvement in the fight against the epidemic.
According to the Ghana Health Service, there are approximately 350,000approximately 350,000 people with a living rate of 2.0% among adults. The Ghana AIDS Commission’s efforts are crucial in reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS and promoting a healthier Ghana.
