Ghana detects over 34,000 new HIV infections within first nine months of 2024

The Ghana Health Service’s National HIV and AIDS Control Programme has reported that over 34,000 new HIV cases have been identified from January to the end of the third quarter of 2024. Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, Programme Manager, highlighted the need for widespread testing and early detection, revealing that around 1.3 million Ghanaians underwent screening during this period.

“From January to September alone, we identified 34,000 new cases through our testing initiatives,” Dr. Ayisi Addo announced at the launch event for the 2024 World AIDS Day, organized by the Ghana AIDS Commission. The event included a candlelight procession in honor of those who have died from AIDS.

World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1, encourages nations to recommit to HIV prevention and support for people living with HIV. This year’s theme is “Take the Rights Path,” underscoring the importance of accessible HIV services for all.

Dr. Ayisi Addo voiced concern over the rising cases, describing it as a setback in Ghana’s ambition to end HIV by 2030. He urged sexually active individuals to consistently use condoms to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections, stressing, “Being faithful to one partner, practicing safe sex, or abstinence are key steps in reducing new infections.”

Dr. Atuahene Kyeremeh, Director General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, reiterated the commission’s commitment to collaborating with partners in the fight against HIV, aiming to reach the 2030 target. He encouraged people living with HIV to adhere to treatment, which is vital in suppressing the virus and preventing its spread.

The Ghana AIDS Commission also announced plans for a grand durbar in Accra on December 2, 2024, as part of the World AIDS Day activities. Representatives from the Ghana Health Service, Ministry of Health, UNAIDS, and the National Association of Persons Living with HIV (NAP+) will join in solidarity to push forward the vision of an HIV-free Ghana by 2030. Participants expressed strong support for the commission’s initiatives, acknowledging the importance of both preventive and supportive measures in achieving this goal.