The National HIV and AIDS Control Programme of the Ghana Health Service has reported a concerning 34,000 new HIV infections detected between January and the third quarter of 2024.

This figure highlights the urgent need for intensified public health efforts as the country strives toward its goal of eliminating the HIV epidemic by 2030.

Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, Programme Manager for the National HIV and AIDS Control Programme, revealed the statistics during the launch of the 2024 World AIDS Day, organised by the Ghana AIDS Commission.

He emphasised the vital role of public testing and screening, which saw approximately 1.3 million people screened during this period.

“Between January and the third quarter alone, the number of people we identified as positives through our testing activities was 34,000,” Dr. Addo shared, stressing the importance of continuous vigilance in combating the spread of the virus.

World AIDS Day, observed annually on December 1, provides a global platform for countries to renew their commitment to preventing new HIV infections and offering essential services to people living with HIV.

The theme for the 2024 World AIDS Day is "Take the Rights Path," a call for increased awareness and action.

Dr. Ayisi expressed concern over the rising number of infections, warning that it posed a significant challenge to Ghana’s ambition of ending the epidemic by 2030.

He called on sexually active individuals to take responsibility for their health, emphasising the use of condoms as a critical protective measure.

“The safest way to protect each other is to be faithful to your partner. Reduce new infections by behaving well or abstaining from sexual activities,” Dr. Ayisi advised.

He also urged persons living with HIV to adhere to their treatment regimens to prevent further transmission.

Dr. Atuahene Kyeremeh, Director-General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to working with all stakeholders to reach the 2030 target.

He underscored the importance of regular screenings and the availability of free treatment options that are proven effective in controlling the virus.

“We are committed to working with all stakeholders to eliminate HIV by 2030. The treatment options available today are highly effective in suppressing the virus,” Dr. Kyeremeh added.

As part of the World AIDS Day observance, the Ghana AIDS Commission announced plans for a grand durbar in Accra on December 2, 2024.

The event will bring together representatives from the Ghana Health Service, the Ministry of Health, UNAIDS, and the National Association of Persons Living with HIV (NAP+), among other partners.