Kumasi: Nana Antwi Agyei Brempong II, the Atwimahene, has highlighted the importance of reinforcing Ghanaian cultural and traditional values to curb the spread of HIV, AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially among the youth. He emphasized that cultural practices such as Bragoro and Dipo could be instrumental in delaying sexual activities and preventing early and premarital sex among young women.
According to Ghana News Agency, Nana Brempong stressed that traditional authorities must collaborate to prevent the influx of foreign cultural practices that encourage immoral behaviors among the youth in communities. Despite significant progress in HIV prevention through education, testing, and treatment, increasing risky sexual behaviors among certain population groups remain a significant public health concern.
Nana Brempong observed that traditional values promoting discipline, chastity, respect for family authority, and responsible living have weakened over time due to changing lifestyles, social media, and peer pressure. These values serve as crucial moral guides, helping young people make responsible decisions to protect their health and future.
He argued that reviving positive cultural practices should be viewed as reinforcing values that encourage responsible behavior and healthy relationships, rather than returning to outdated customs. The chief emphasized that combating HIV and other STIs requires a holistic approach, integrating scientific knowledge, quality healthcare, and beneficial cultural values.
Nana Brempong highlighted the role of traditional leaders in educating the public on the dangers of risky sexual behavior through festivals, durbars, and community meetings. He urged chiefs and queen mothers to work with health professionals to provide accurate information on HIV prevention, testing, and treatment.
He also encouraged parents to engage in open discussions about sexual and reproductive health with their children, rather than allowing them to rely on potentially misleading information from friends or social media. Religious organizations and educational institutions also play a supportive role in promoting moral discipline and responsible decision-making among the youth.
Nana Brempong emphasized that reinforcing cultural values should not promote stigma or discrimination against individuals living with HIV, but rather foster compassion, respect, and support in the national response to the disease. He advised young people to avoid risky sexual practices, substance abuse, and to utilize available health services, including HIV counseling and testing.
He called on government agencies, the Ghana Health Service, civil society organizations, and development partners to continue investing in public education campaigns while collaborating with traditional authorities to encourage behavioral change. Nana Brempong expressed optimism that by combining Ghana's rich cultural heritage with evidence-based public health interventions, the country can significantly reduce new HIV infections, enhance public awareness, and safeguard the health and well-being of future generations.