President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called for urgent action to address gender disparities as a critical step toward ending the HIV and AIDS epidemic in Ghana. Speaking on his behalf at the 2024 World AIDS Day durbar in Accra, Mr. Osei-Kyei Mensah Bonsu, Member of Parliament for Suame, emphasized the need to tackle gender-based violence, child marriage, and stigma surrounding HIV.
The President highlighted that women account for 60% of new HIV infections in Ghana, mirroring global trends where adolescent girls and young women bear the brunt of the epidemic. He described the situation as alarming and a call to action, noting that harmful practices and silence around gender issues exacerbate the epidemic. Stigma and discrimination remain major barriers to addressing HIV in communities, he added, urging a united effort from healthcare workers, civil society, religious leaders, and local communities to overcome these challenges.
To strengthen the national response, President Akufo-Addo revealed measures, including the waiver of import duties on essential HIV commodities and increased investment in antiretroviral medicines. These steps are part of Ghana’s broader efforts to meet the global 95-95-95 targets and end AIDS by 2030.
Dr. Kyeremeh Atuahene, Director-General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, noted that while Ghana’s HIV prevalence rate remains at a low 1.5%, challenges persist. Approximately 35% of people living with HIV are unaware of their status, and 55% are not on antiretroviral treatment, which is critical for controlling transmission and improving quality of life.
The World AIDS Day event, attended by representatives from the World Health Organization, US Embassy, and other dignitaries, featured community engagement activities, health screenings, and the distribution of HIV awareness materials. Participants were encouraged to embrace prevention, testing, and treatment as Ghana works toward epidemic control.