Western region: The Ghana AIDS Commission has revealed that more than 23,000 individuals are currently living with HIV in the Western Region, with an estimated three new infections occurring daily.
According to Ghana Web, these figures were highlighted during a video interview shared by Citi FM 97.3, featuring a representative from the Commission. Presenting the 2025 HIV estimates and projections, the representative explained that while treatment is proving effective, the persistence of new infections continues to undermine progress. The representative stated, "For the Western Region, we have about 23,000-plus people that we estimate are living with the virus in the region. If you look at our new infections, it has reduced slightly from somewhere around 992 persons newly infected with HIV. What this means is that every day we are getting at least three people infected in the region."
The Ghana AIDS Commission emphasized that treatment alone cannot deliver the desired results if new infections persist, warning that reducing the rate of new infections remains critical if Ghana is to achieve its national goal of ending AIDS by 2030. The representative further expressed concerns, stating, "HIV treatment is working, but then we cannot make any gain if the treatment that is working is being, in a way, countered with new infections. New infections are key for us, because if people are still getting infected, then it means our ambition to end AIDS by 2030 becomes a bit challenging."
Officials highlighted the vulnerability of young people, noting a rise in infections among those aged 15 to 24. They emphasized that prevention now extends beyond mere awareness creation, with a focus on comprehensive strategies. "We are saying that condoms really can help in preventing HIV. But then let's add other preventive options. Let's look at biomedical issues, behavioural issues, and structural issues. And so if someone is not able to access condoms and the person is living a high-risk sexual behaviour, there's also PrEP, pre-exposure."
The Commission further stressed the importance of intensified prevention efforts, treatment adherence, and public awareness to curb the ongoing transmission of the virus in the region. Recent regional data have shown persistently high numbers of new cases in previous years, placing the Western Region among areas requiring sustained intervention. The Commission continues to urge communities to prioritise testing, safe practices, and support for those living with HIV as part of the broader national response.