AIDS-based non-governmental organizations and other agencies working in the Upper East Region have been accused of misapplying funds meant to support campaigns and other activities targeting HIV/AIDS. The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Wayongo says reports reaching him indicate the organizations concerned apply to funding agencies such as the Ghana Aids Commission for support on AIDS-related activities but end up using the funds for businesses other than helping to fight the menace. The minister told Joy News the conduct defeats the purpose for which the funds are given. “I’m getting reports from certain quarters that some of the monies these NGOs get is diverted and that is why I have called to complain. Not only NGO’s, there are other institutions which apply for money from the Aids Commission and they are equally guilty of that kind of practice.” Mr. Wayongo said he will liaise with the Ghana Aids Commission to strengthen its monitoring of Aids-related projects and promote transparency in the operations of these organizations. “We’ll get the names of the beneficiary institutions in the region and then we can monitor the activities of those institutions.”