Ghana marks World AIDS Day today, Monday with a call for unity and renewed commitment as the country faces steady HIV infections and persistent stigma.
The day, observed annually on December 1, brings government officials, health workers, civil society groups and community advocates together to reflect on progress and the work ahead.
This year’s global theme, “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,” focuses on building systems that can withstand shocks and keep services running.
Ghana’s national sub-theme, “Africa Unites Against AIDS,” underscores the importance of regional cooperation at a time when countries continue to adjust to shifting health priorities and funding cuts.
Health officials say Ghana has made gains through prevention, treatment and care programmes, but the burden remains high. Current estimates show more than 334,700 people are living with HIV.
In 2024, the country recorded over 15,200 new infections and more than 12,600 AIDS-related deaths. Authorities admit that prevention efforts have not always been consistent, and stigma against people living with HIV continues to undermine progress.
The government says it has taken steps to protect essential services after reductions in external funding.
In February this year, President John Dramani Mahama directed the Ministry of Finance to secure resources for core HIV services.
Cabinet has also approved a revised National Workplace HIV and Wellness Policy aimed at strengthening prevention, reducing stigma and offering better protection for workers.
Another major move is the launch of the National HIV Response Sustainability Roadmap. The plan lays out actions to mobilise domestic funding, expand access to prevention and treatment, and build a response that can hold steady over time.
Officials stressed that the next phase of the response relies heavily on collective action, including stronger involvement from the private sector.
HIV affects productivity and economic growth, and the government is urging businesses to invest in workplace programmes, support awareness and testing efforts, and enforce policies that protect employees.
Government leaders also used the occasion to thank frontline staff, civil society groups and community advocates whose work, they said, has saved lives and provided hope.
As part of the day’s message, Ghanaians were encouraged to know their status, take an HIV self-test, seek treatment promptly and reject stigma and discrimination.
Corporate organisations were called on to support the national response, adopt the workplace policy and partner with government to build a sustainable, resilient fight against HIV.
