In 2023, the Volta region recorded 778 new HIV infections, accounting for 4.4% of Ghana’s total. Key populations displayed higher prevalence rates, with significant coverage gaps in Antiretroviral Therapy. The HIV technical coordinator stressed the need for enhanced prevention and educational outreach efforts in collaboration with various stakeholders.
In the Volta region of Ghana, 778 new HIV infections were reported in 2023, accounting for 4.4 percent of the nation’s total of 17,774 cases. Mary Naa Asheley Anyomi, Volta Regional Technical Coordinator of the Ghana AIDS Commission, revealed that among the new infections, 230 were male adults, 468 were adult females, 214 were youths aged 15 to 24, and 80 were children aged zero to 14 years.
During a courtesy visit to Volta Regional Minister James Gunu, Anyomi highlighted that the adult HIV prevalence in the region is 1.35 percent, ranking ninth in the country. Key populations have significantly higher prevalence rates, with 4.3 percent among female sex workers and 28.9 percent among men who have sex with men.
Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) coverage in the region stands at 57.1 percent for all ages and 58.0 percent for adults. However, coverage for children is lower, at 41.5 percent. Notable districts, such as Central Tongu, Ketu North, Ketu South, and North Tongu, contributed to 42.03 percent of new infections.
Anyomi noted particularly high prevalence rates in districts like Kpando (2.08 percent), Central Tongu (1.6 percent), and North Tongu (1.57 percent), surpassing both regional and national averages. Consequently, nine districts in the region recorded rates above the regional average, with 15 out of the 18 districts showing rates of one percent or higher.
To combat the spread of HIV, Anyomi emphasized the necessity of reinforcing prevention programs, advocating for increased condom use, and reducing stigma. Educational campaigns via various media, including television, radio, and social platforms, are vital in disseminating accurate information about HIV.
Efforts include utilizing educational clubs in schools to better inform students about HIV. The rollout of HIV self-testing aims to reach underserved populations, including adult men, adolescents, and high-risk groups. Community testing initiatives will also take place during significant events and festivities.
Victor Ntumy from the Ghana Coalition of NGOs in Health acknowledged ongoing challenges, such as limited access in outreach areas and financial constraints. Nonetheless, Minister Gunu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prioritizing health and encouraged collaboration with various stakeholders to reduce HIV transmission among the youth.
The meeting included significant figures, including Reverend Gershon Kwame Osei and Alhaji Anas Hamidu, reinforcing the coalition’s commitment to combating HIV.
The Volta region has reported a notable rise in HIV infections, emphasizing the need for urgent preventive measures and educational outreach. With significant disparities in prevalence rates among different districts and populations, targeted efforts such as increased ART coverage and awareness campaigns are crucial. Collaboration among stakeholders remains vital to address these challenges effectively and reduce transmission within the region.
Original Source: mobile.ghanaweb.com
