The Director-General of the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC), Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, has led a high-level advocacy and working visit to Cape Coast in the Central Region.
The event, which brought together traditional leaders, queen mothers, representatives from the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Ghana Education Service (GES), civil society organizations, and other stakeholders aimed at strengthening regional efforts in the national HIV/AIDS response.
In his keynote address, Dr. Akanbong highlighted the current state of HIV/AIDS in Ghana, expressing concern about the growing number of cases, particularly among young people.
He introduced the Workplace Project — an initiative focused on addressing HIV/AIDS issues in professional environments — as a step toward integrating health awareness into everyday work life.
A representative of the DTS team, Dr Fred Nana Poku delivered a compelling speech on the risks of over-reliance on international funding for HIV programs.
“The sustainability of our fight lies in our ability to invest locally,” he noted, stressing the need for stronger domestic financing.
Dr. Nana Poku also addressed the high levels of HIV-related stigma, particularly in schools, and unveiled a new core-based program targeting stigma reduction.
Stakeholders were urged to actively engage and support this effort.
The Ghana Health Service reinforced the urgency of the matter, revealing that 3,824 HIV/AIDS cases were recorded in the Central Region alone in 2024.
The service called for collaborative efforts, especially within schools, to tackle stigma and educate young people.
In response, Central Regional Director of the Ghana Education Service Cape Coast, Mr Emmanuel Essuman assured stakeholders of its full commitment to the cause. GES representatives pledged to work closely with partners to implement educational strategies and awareness campaigns aimed at reducing stigma and promoting inclusivity.
Following a vibrant open forum and reflections, participants departed for a field visit to Twifo Oil Palm Plantation Limited (TOPP), where a closed-door meeting was held with the management to discuss private sector collaboration in HIV response.
The advocacy visit concluded with the delegation’s return to Cape Coast, leaving behind a strong message: the fight against HIV/AIDS is far from over, but with united efforts and sustainable strategies, progress is within reach.