W/R records 3 new HIV cases everyday

A sharp rise in HIV infections in the Western Region has prompted the Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, to inaugurate a nine-member Regional Committee of the Ghana AIDS Commission (ReCCOM) to strengthen the region’s response to the epidemic.
The committee’s establishment forms part of the national directive to decentralise Ghana’s HIV and AIDS response, under the Ghana AIDS Commission Act, 2016 (Act 938) and L.I. 2403 (2020), which mandates all regions to set up structures to coordinate prevention, treatment and care at the local level.
Launching the Committee in Sekondi, the Minister expressed grave concern over what he described as a “steadily worsening” HIV situation in the region.

He cited the Ghana AIDS Commission’s 2024 data, which recorded 1,120 new infections, translating to approximately three new cases every single day, over the last five years.
Mr. Joseph Nelson said the worrying statistics called for renewed commitment, stronger partnerships and sustained community sensitization.

He urged traditional authorities, faith-based organizations, youth groups, and civil society actors to support the work of the committee, stressing that the region could not afford to ignore a crisis that threatens its human capital.
The Regional HIV Coordinator, Dr. Felicia Amihere, reinforced the Minister’s concerns, revealing that the region had already recorded 449 new HIV cases between January and September 2025, a figure she warned could surpass last year’s total if urgent action is not taken.
She noted that the Western Region placed fourth nationally in the 2024 HIV estimates, with 24,885 people currently living with HIV, a trend she said should trigger a stronger community-level response.
Dr. Felicia Amihere lamented the growing sense of complacency among young people, many of whom believe HIV is no longer a significant threat due to advances in treatment.

She urged the public to adhere to preventive measures, get tested regularly, and support persons living with the virus rather than stigmatise them.

According to the Regional HIV Coordinator, stigma and misinformation continue to undermine efforts to reduce new infections.
The newly inaugurated committee is expected to coordinate all regional HIV interventions, ensure access to essential services and mobilise stakeholders to drive the national vision of ending AIDS by 2030.

 

 

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