About nine people contract HIV daily in Ashanti Region — Ghana AIDS Commission

Health authorities in the Ashanti Region have expressed concern over the continuous increase in new HIV infections, despite various interventions aimed at reducing the spread of the virus.

According to the Ghana AIDS Commission’s (GAC) 2024 regional estimates, the Ashanti Region recorded 2,997 new HIV infections in 2024. This means that, on average, about nine people were infected each day.

The Kumasi metropolis continues to record a large share of the new cases, a development health officials say underscores the need for stronger prevention, testing, and treatment efforts.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency, the Ashanti Regional Director of Health, Dr Fred Adomako Boateng, said that although there have been improvements in HIV testing and treatment uptake, many people living with the virus are still not on antiretroviral therapy (ART).

“This gap poses a serious public health risk, and the only way to address it is by improving testing, increasing awareness, and ensuring prevention services are easily accessible everywhere,” he said.

Dr Boateng noted that health authorities are expanding HIV testing and support services across communities in and around Kumasi. However, stigma and discrimination continue to prevent many people—especially men and young people—from seeking testing and treatment.

“Knowing your status is the first and most powerful step in protecting yourself and those you love,” he stressed, encouraging the public to take advantage of free HIV testing and counselling services at health facilities across the region.

Meanwhile, the Ashanti Regional Technical Coordinator of the Ghana AIDS Commission, Madam Olivia Graham, said women account for a higher proportion of reported HIV cases, partly because more women get tested compared to men. She added that young people between the ages of 15 and 24 make up a significant share of new infections, calling for targeted education and interventions to reduce risky sexual behaviour among the youth.

Health officials say reversing the upward trend in new HIV infections will require stronger community engagement, sustained public education, and increased support to help people know their HIV status and stay on treatment where necessary…CONTINUE MORE READING>>>