The Ghana AIDS Commission has raised alarm over a worrying trend: young people aged 15 to 25 now account for the majority of new HIV infections in the country. This marks a shift from the historically higher-risk groups, such as female sex workers and men who have sex with men.
In an interview with Woezor TV published on YouTube on Monday, July 28, 2025, Acting Director-General Dr. Prosper Akambo confirmed that national data shows a sharp rise in infections among youth.
“In recent years, the increase in key populations has not been as steep as what we’re now seeing among the general population—especially those aged 15 to 25,” Dr. Akambo said.
According to Commission data, Ghana recorded 15,529 new HIV infections in 2024, a slight drop from 17,400 in 2023 and 16,574 in 2022. However, the data also shows a growing concentration of cases among adolescents and young adults—many of whom lack proper sexual health education.
Dr. Akambo attributed this trend to the decline in HIV awareness campaigns over the last decade. He noted that young people who are now becoming sexually active missed out on the widespread public health messaging that previous generations were exposed to.
“Back then, HIV prevention messages were everywhere,” he said. “But for the past ten years, those efforts have significantly diminished—and that’s where we lost ground.”
The Commission had shifted focus towards treatment and high-risk populations, which inadvertently led to reduced investment in general awareness and prevention—particularly among the youth. Now, efforts are being made to reverse this.
To respond to the growing threat, the Ghana AIDS Commission has partnered with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA) to train 1,000 young people as HIV education and anti-stigma ambassadors. These youth will help spread awareness in schools, workplaces, and communities.
The Commission is also expanding access to HIV self-testing kits at ART (antiretroviral therapy) centres and working closely with community organisations to ensure those who test positive can start treatment quickly.
Dr. Akambo stressed that tackling stigma remains a key priority, as fear and discrimination continue to discourage many from seeking care. In response, the Commission is advocating for new labour laws to criminalize workplace discrimination against people living with HIV.
“HIV today is manageable—just like diabetes or hypertension,” Dr. Akambo explained. “With proper treatment, people can live long and healthy lives. But stigma keeps too many in silence and out of care.”
He emphasized that the Commission is committed to a balanced strategy that includes prevention, education, treatment, and legal protection—especially for vulnerable and underserved populations.
Source: Graphic.com.gh
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