The Government of Ghana has reaffirmed its dedication to ending AIDS as a public health threat, joining the global community in commemorating World AIDS Day 2025.

This year’s observance, marked on December 1, offered a moment of reflection, solidarity and renewed national commitment to sustaining progress in HIV prevention, treatment and care.

Under the global theme “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response,”Ghana highlighted the urgent need to build resilient health systems capable of withstanding shocks and sustaining essential services.

The nation’s own sub-theme, “Africa Unites Against AIDS,”underscored the importance of regional cooperation and shared responsibility in protecting public health.

According to the Presidency, Ghana has made "commendable" advances in evidence-based HIV interventions.

Yet challenges persist: more than 334,700 Ghanaians are currently living with HIV, and in 2024 the country recorded over 15,200 new infections and more than 12,600 AIDS-related deaths. Prevention efforts have sometimes lacked consistency, and stigma against people living with HIV remains widespread.

To reinforce service continuity and build long-term resilience, the government has introduced several policy measures in 2025.
Among them is a presidential directive to the Ministry of Finance aimed at securing domestic funding for core HIV services following reductions in external support.

Cabinet has also approved a revised National Workplace HIV and Wellness Policy, which is designed to reduce stigma, strengthen prevention and protect workers.

Another major step is the launch of the National HIV Response Sustainability Roadmap, which outlines actions to mobilise domestic resources, broaden access to prevention and treatment, and ensure the stability of HIV-related programmes.

A key priority going forward, the statement noted, is stronger private-sector engagement. With HIV affecting productivity and economic growth, businesses are being encouraged to invest in workplace HIV initiatives, awareness campaigns and policies that safeguard employees.

The government also commended public, private and civil society stakeholders for their resilience and commitment despite ongoing challenges. Their work, the statement added, has saved lives and will remain integral to national progress.

In a call to action, the Presidency urged Ghanaians to know their HIV status, take HIV self-tests, seek timely treatment and stand firm against stigma and discrimination.

Corporate Ghana was encouraged to implement the national HIV and wellness policy and support government efforts to secure a “sustainable, resilient response.”

The statement was signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications.

Sompaonline.com/Derrick Djan