Kumasi, Ashanti Region – New data reveals a positive trend in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, with both the overall prevalence rate and the number of new infections showing a decline. This reduction extends notably to commercial sex workers and mining districts.
According to figures from the Ghana AIDS Commission, the total number of HIV/AIDS cases in the region dropped from 3,650 in 2023 to 2,997 by the end of 2024.
Key Declines Highlighted
Mrs. Olivia Graham, the Ashanti Regional Technical Coordinator of the Ghana AIDS Commission, shared these encouraging statistics during the inauguration of the newly reconstituted Regional AIDS Committee in Kumasi.
- Overall Cases: A drop from 3,650 (2023) to 2,997 (2024).
- Commercial Sex Workers (CSW): Prevalence has significantly decreased. Mrs. Graham noted the national prevalence among CSWs has dropped from approximately 11% to 4%, attributing the success to increased condom use and protective measures in this group.
- Mining Districts: New infections in these areas have also witnessed a decline.
Mrs. Graham confirmed that while the Ashanti Region still ranks second nationally to Greater Accra in overall prevalence, the region saw a welcome drop in total cases, new infections, and the prevalence rate between 2023 and 2024.
Note: A challenge remains in the uptake of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), as some carriers are reportedly refusing treatment due to the self-denial of their status.
Reconstituted Committee Inaugurated
The event also saw the swearing-in and inauguration of the nine-member Ashanti Regional AIDS Committee, chaired by the Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene.
The committee is composed of key stakeholders, including representatives from:
- Christian and Muslim communities
- Civil society groups
- Ghana Health Service
- Network of Associations of Persons Living with HIV
- Regional House of Chiefs
- Ghana Education Service
- Ghana AIDS Commission
Madam Dorcas Baidoo, the Ashanti Regional Focal Person for HIV and AIDS, charged the new members to, “Facilitate stakeholder dialogue, achievement and innovation opportunities and HIV response. Strengthen partnership and mobilize support for the regional HIV initiatives.”
Regional Minister Dr. Amoakohene emphasized the committee’s role in coordinating efforts towards prevention, education, and management, all in pursuit of Ghana’s national goal: the eradication of HIV and AIDS by 2030.
