The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has expressed deep concern over the sharp decline in condom use among young people, linking the trend to a growing complacency and reduced fear of HIV and AIDS infections.
Mr. Isaiah Doe Kwao, Director of Research, Monitoring and Evaluation at the GAC, noted that although condoms remain readily available, many young people are increasingly engaging in unprotected sex.
“Even though condoms are accessible in this country, it appears the youth of today are not using them as we would want,” he said at the 14th National Partnership Forum on HIV and AIDS in Accra on Wednesday, October 22.
He explained that some young people prefer “going raw,” believing that HIV is no longer deadly because fewer deaths are visible. “Some say they prefer the natural feel. Others think HIV is no longer deadly because they no longer see people dying like before, so the fear factor is gone,” he said.
Mr. Kwao described these attitudes as dangerous and stressed that condoms remain one of the most effective methods of preventing HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unintended pregnancies.
“As much as possible, we continue to encourage them to reduce risky behaviours. Condom use is still key in preventing HIV and other infections. We advise them to either abstain, remain faithful to one partner, or use condoms consistently and correctly,” he added.
He urged young people to prioritise their health, emphasizing that their wellbeing is crucial to Ghana’s development. “The youth are the future leaders of this country. We want them to stay safe, grow into healthy adults, and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
On Ghana’s goal of ending AIDS by 2030, Mr. Kwao revealed that the Commission is preparing a strategic plan (2026–2030) to guide interventions aimed at achieving the global 95-95-95 targets — ensuring that all persons living with HIV know their status, receive treatment, and achieve viral suppression.
However, he cited inadequate funding as a major challenge, following the reduction of support from donor partners such as USAID and the Global Fund. “It is incumbent on the government of Ghana to fill in the gap so that we can implement the interventions we’ve laid out,” he stated.
Mr. Kwao also called on the private sector to support the national HIV response through corporate social responsibility initiatives and contributions to the Ghana HIV and AIDS Fund. “We have developed a short code, *9898#, where individuals can donate as little as one cedi to support HIV activities in the country,” he added.
Mr. Kakra Essamuah, Board Chair of the GAC and Chairperson of the event, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to mobilising domestic resources to sustain Ghana’s HIV response and eliminate AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
He commended stakeholders for their continuous collaboration and urged renewed commitment and innovation to address emerging challenges. Representatives from UNESCO, the Global Fund, NAP+ Ghana, and the Ghana Employers Association pledged continued support for Ghana’s efforts to combat HIV and AIDS.
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Source:Africa Publicity
