New HIV infections in the Ashanti Region have begun to decline, contributing to a broader reduction in the region’s overall HIV prevalence rate.
According to recent data from the Ghana AIDS Commission, total HIV/AIDS cases in the region fell from 3,650 in 2023 to 2,997 in 2024. Significant decreases were also recorded among commercial sex workers and in various mining districts.
This information was shared by the Ashanti Regional Technical Coordinator of the Ghana AIDS Commission, Mrs. Olivia Graham, during the inauguration of the newly reconstituted Ashanti Regional AIDS Committee in Kumasi. The event also served as a platform for the Ghana AIDS Commission and the Ghana Health Service to disseminate the latest report on the HIV/AIDS situation in the region.
The nine-member committee was sworn in by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, who also serves as its chairperson. Members represent key stakeholder groups, including Christian and Muslim communities, civil society organizations, the Ghana Health Service, the Network of Associations of Persons Living with HIV, the Regional House of Chiefs, the Ghana Education Service, and the Regional AIDS Commission Secretariat.
Committee members took the Oaths of Office and Secrecy, reaffirming their commitment to leading the region’s fight against HIV and AIDS.
The Ashanti Regional Focal Person for HIV and AIDS, Madam Dorcas Baidoo, briefed the committee on their key responsibilities, emphasizing the need to:
- Facilitate stakeholder engagement
- Strengthen partnerships
- Mobilize support for regional HIV initiatives
- Promote innovation in the HIV response
Presenting the latest data, Mrs. Graham explained that although the Ashanti Region still ranks second to Greater Accra in HIV prevalence, it has recorded reductions in total cases, new infections, and prevalence rates from 2023 to 2024. One exception is antiretroviral therapy (ART) uptake, as some individuals continue to avoid treatment due to denial of their HIV status.
She also highlighted a significant improvement among sex workers: “We’ve seen a drop in prevalence from about 11% to 7%, and now the national rate is around 4%. This decline is largely due to consistent condom use and increased self-protection. However, reaching individuals engaged in ‘hookup’ activities remains challenging.”
Dr. Amoakohene reminded the committee of their mandate to coordinate prevention, education, and management efforts toward achieving Ghana’s goal of significantly lowering infection rates and suppressing the virus.
“Our task is to harmonize all efforts related to HIV prevention and management within the region—especially in the area of prevention,” he stressed.
Ghana aims to eradicate HIV and AIDS by 2030, and the Ashanti Regional AIDS Committee is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving this national target.
Source: theghanareport.com
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