HIV Infections in Ashanti Region Decline, Sex Worker Cases Drop
Ashanti Region sees a significant drop in HIV cases as prevention and education efforts gain momentum
- Total HIV cases in Ashanti Region fell from 3,650 in 2023 to 2,997 in 2024.
- HIV prevalence among sex workers dropped from 11% to 7%, contributing to a national rate of 4%.
- Reconstituted Ashanti Regional AIDS Committee inaugurated to strengthen prevention, education, and management of HIV.
New data indicates a decline in HIV infections in the Ashanti Region, reflecting progress in the fight against the pandemic in the area.
According to the Ghana AIDS Commission, total HIV/AIDS cases fell from 3,650 in 2023 to 2,997 by the end of 2024. Notably, new infections among commercial sex workers and in mining districts have also decreased.
Mrs. Olivia Graham, Ashanti Regional Technical Coordinator for the Ghana AIDS Commission, shared these findings at the inauguration of the reconstituted Ashanti Regional AIDS Committee in Kumasi. The event also served as a platform to present the latest HIV and AIDS statistics for the region.
The nine-member committee, led by Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene, who also serves as Chairman, includes representatives from the Christian and Muslim communities, civil society organizations, Ghana Health Service, the Network of Associations of Persons Living with HIV, the Regional House of Chiefs, and the Ghana Education Service. Members were sworn in and took oaths of office and secrecy.
Madam Dorcas Baidoo, Ashanti Regional Focal Person for HIV and AIDS, outlined the committee’s responsibilities, emphasizing stakeholder dialogue, innovative initiatives, and strengthening partnerships to combat HIV in the region.
Mrs. Graham presented the latest report, noting that while Ashanti remains second to Greater Accra in HIV prevalence, the region experienced a drop in total cases, new infections, and overall prevalence in 2024 compared to 2023. However, uptake of antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains a challenge as some carriers refuse treatment due to denial of their status.
She highlighted the significant progress among sex workers, whose HIV prevalence has dropped from around 11% to 7%, with the national rate now at approximately 4%. “We’re seeing a decline in this area because sex workers are increasingly using condoms and protecting themselves. Reaching other groups, however, remains challenging,” she noted.
Dr. Amoakohene stressed the committee’s mandate to coordinate regional HIV prevention, education, and management efforts, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to achieving its 2030 goal of eradicating HIV and AIDS.
