The Ghana HIV and AIDS Network (GHANET) has reported that more than 4,500 people succumbed to HIV/AIDS-related illnesses between January and September 2024.
“This figure represents a significant drop compared to the 12,000 deaths recorded in 2023,” stated Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, Programme Manager for the National HIV and AIDS Control Programme.
To combat the epidemic, GHANET has introduced HIV self-testing kits, allowing individuals to check their status privately at home.
“With the availability of self-testing kits and antiretroviral treatments, no one should die from AIDS,” Dr. Ayisi Addo stressed.
In collaboration with the Global Fund, GHANET has empowered community volunteers to distribute the self-testing kits to various regions, enhancing accessibility and awareness.
Looking ahead, Ghana is preparing to host nearly 10,000 participants for the International Conference on AIDS and STIs, one of Africa’s largest gatherings focused on combating these diseases.
Dr. Ayisi Addo also discussed efforts to achieve the ambitious 95-95-95 global target. This framework aims for 95% of the population to know their HIV status, 95% of those diagnosed to receive treatment, and 95% of those treated to achieve viral suppression.
“Currently, 65% of the population knows their HIV status, 69% of diagnosed individuals are on treatment, and 89% of those treated have achieved viral suppression,” he noted. “We are actively working to close these gaps and reach the 95% target across all areas.”
Dr. Ayisi Addo expressed optimism, stating that the ongoing strategies are expected to yield significant progress this year, bringing Ghana closer to a future free of HIV/AIDS.
