Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, has voiced serious concerns about the rising incidence of HIV/AIDS in Ghana, even after years of work and advancements in halting the virus’s transmission.
The Minister described the situation as a “matter of great concern,” stating that the pandemic continues to impact many lives and that it needs to be dealt with renewed urgency and seriousness.
At the Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC), he made the comments while meeting with a delegation from the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC), which was headed by Acting Director General Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong.
Even though Ghana has made great success in the fight against HIV/AIDS over the years, Mr. Nelson claims that there are indications of complacency among stakeholders, which could undo the achievements won.
“This country has suffered for many years in the fight against HIV/AIDS. We need to keep our focus and intensify the campaign. The current statistics in the Western Region are alarming. It is scary, and we must act now,” he said. “
To maintain the progress accomplished thus far, he urged all parties involved to work together in a concerted effort to go back the proper way.
The Minister expressed his gratitude to Dr. Akanbong for his aggressive leadership since taking office and promised to fully support the Commission’s regional initiatives.
“Your presence here will do a lot. I’m going to be available to support you. The commitment to improve performance should come from the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). You will have my full support, and I will ensure that all MMDCEs come on board,” he reiterated.
Additionally, he called on health professionals and other important players to implement creative tactics and operational enhancements in the campaign to effect constructive change.
During his remarks, Dr. Akanbong thanked the Minister for the cordial welcome and gave him an update on the country’s current HIV/AIDS prevalence.
He revealed that the Western Region has a 1.82% prevalence rate, whereas the national figure is 1.53%. He underlined that in order to preserve and advance the accomplishments made thus far, consistent efforts are required.
“The GAC is required to mobilize resources, provide accurate data on the disease, and coordinate the national response to HIV/AIDS,” he explained.
He did, however, point out that one of the Commission’s biggest problems is that focal individuals, who are essential to the nation’s decentralized response efforts, do not receive enough funds.
He urged the Minister to assist in rallying local assemblies to support these focus points, particularly in high-risk regions.
Citing the influx of labor and related social behaviors as major contributors, Dr. Akanbong further recognized illicit mining, sometimes known as “Galamsey,” as a significant contributor to the increased prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the Western Region.
He emphasized that addressing the direct and indirect causes of the pandemic’s spread requires more cooperation from all parties involved.
Source: newsthemegh.com