Ghana AIDS Commission launches Youth Desk to tackle HIV infections among young people

The AIDS Commission (GAC) has strongly condemned the practice of denying jobs or school admission to HIV patients, describing it as shameful and regrettable. This discrimination and stigmatization against People Living With HIV (PLWHIV) contradicts the GAC's constant fight against such practices, emphasizing that HIV is not a disability that prevents individuals from working in any environment.

Mr. Essamuah, a representative of the AIDS Partnership Forum, made these remarks at the 15th National HIV and AIDS Partnership Forum organized by the GAC. The forum, held to mark 40 years of Ghana's HIV response, aimed to review progress, discuss past agreements, and set priorities for the upcoming year.

The GAC Director General, Dr Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, highlighted the commission's efforts since the 14th Partnership Forum, including the creation of a youth desk, the development of a national HIV and TB Human Rights Strategic Plan, and the establishment of a community-level data system. However, he noted that progress has been slower in advancing local production of HIV commodities and government funding for the local HIV response, which remain key priorities for the coming year.

According to Dr Akanbong, while Ghana has seen a decline in new HIV infections, there has been an increase in new infections among the 15-24 age group, making up about 30 percent of all new infections. This worrying trend necessitates specific actions to address the issue. The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Zia Choudhury, reaffirmed the UN's commitment to Ghana's healthcare financing and urged cooperation between governments, institutions, and development partners in overcoming HIV and AIDS.

The Chief Director of the President's Office, Dr Alhaji Abubakari Wayo, echoed the sentiments of the GAC, stressing that no single entity can end HIV and AIDS while working in isolation. He paid tribute to PLWHIV and their networks, acknowledging their courage, advocacy, and experiences in shifting policies and challenging stigma. Other speakers at the forum included Dr Emmanuel Teviu, the Programme Manager of the National AIDS and STIs Control Programme, and Luc Armand Bodea, the Director and Coordinator of ICASA and SAA.