Takoradi: The Ghana HIV and AIDS Network (GHANET) recently organized a two-hour walk in the Western Region to combat the spread of HIV and AIDS. The event, which took place in Takoradi, drew participants from various segments of the community to raise awareness about the disease and promote preventive measures.
According to Ghana News Agency, the walk commenced from the Takoradi Technical Institute gate and passed through several streets in Effiakuma, culminating at the Effia Police Park. Here, both young and old attendees were educated about new HIV infections and the importance of prevention and abstinence.
The event saw the participation of notable figures such as Ms. Joyce Begyina, Health Director of the Effia Kwesimintsin Municipal Assembly, Nana Egya Kwamena XI, the Chief of Apremdo, and Ms. Eva Ankrah from Hurds Foundation. Alongside school children and community members, these high-profile personalities joined the walk to observe AIDS Day, themed ‘Let Communities Lead’.
Nana Egya Kwamena XI, in his address, urged the youth to exercise control over their sexual behaviors, emphasizing the need for healthy community members to advance development goals. He stressed the importance of the youth in these efforts, urging them to protect themselves against the risks of HIV and AIDS.
Ms. Begyina highlighted a concerning trend of increasing HIV infections among the youth, accounting for seven percent of new cases. She pointed out the heightened risk among female sex workers and called for widespread education to safeguard the girl child.
Ms. Alberta Kwofie, the Western Regional Vice President of GHANET, emphasized that the walk aimed to educate Ghanaians about self-testing. This initiative is part of a broader effort to encourage voluntary testing and awareness of individual HIV status, crucial steps in the fight against the spread of HIV and AIDS.