adverts
The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has expressed growing concern over the declining use of condoms among young people, warning that complacency and misconceptions about HIV and AIDS could reverse years of progress in the country’s public health efforts.
Speaking at the 14th National Partnership Forum on HIV and AIDS in Accra on Wednesday, October 22, the Director of Research, Monitoring and Evaluation at GAC, Mr Isaiah Doe Kwao, said the trend reflects a worrying shift in attitudes toward sexual health.
“Even though we have condoms in this country, it appears the youth of today are not using them as we would want,” he noted.
adverts
Mr Kwao explained that many young people now engage in unprotected sex because they no longer fear HIV as they did in the past. He attributed this to the reduced visibility of AIDS-related deaths, which has created a false sense of security among the youth.
“Some say they prefer the natural feel. Others think HIV is no longer deadly because they no longer see people dying like before, so the fear factor is gone,” he said.
He described this perception as dangerous, stressing that condoms remain a proven and effective tool for preventing HIV, other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unintended pregnancies.
“Condom use is still key in preventing HIV and other infections. We advise them to either abstain, remain faithful to one partner, or use condoms consistently and correctly,” he urged.
Mr Kwao further emphasised that the health and wellbeing of young people are crucial to Ghana’s future development.
“The youth are the future leaders of this country. We want them to stay safe, grow into healthy adults, and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he added.
On Ghana’s roadmap toward ending AIDS by 2030, Mr Kwao disclosed that the Commission is developing a strategic plan (2026–2030) to align with global targets—ensuring that 95% of persons living with HIV know their status, 95% receive treatment, and 95% achieve viral suppression.
However, he cautioned that inadequate funding continues to hinder progress, following the reduction of donor support from key partners such as USAID and the Global Fund.
“It is incumbent on the government of Ghana to fill in the gap so that we can implement the interventions we’ve laid out,” he said, adding that private sector participation is also vital.
To sustain Ghana’s HIV response, he announced a *donation short code (9898#) through which individuals can contribute as little as one cedi to the Ghana HIV and AIDS Fund.
Mr Kakra Essamuah, Board Chair of the GAC, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to mobilising domestic resources and innovating new strategies to eliminate AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
He commended stakeholders and partners—including UNESCO, the Global Fund, NAP+ Ghana, and the Ghana Employers Association—for their unwavering support.
“This fight requires renewed energy, commitment, and creativity. Together, we can protect the next generation and sustain the gains we’ve made,” he said.
Click the link Puretvonline.com | WhatsApp Channel to join the WhatsApp channel
GOT A STORY?
Contact/WhatsApp: +233243201960 or manuelnkansah33@gmail.com
