The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Youth Employment Agency (YEA).

This collaboration aims to bolster HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention efforts specifically tailored for young people and adolescents.

The Acting Executive Director of the GAC, Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, highlighted the urgency of this initiative, noting that youth represent a substantial portion of new HIV cases.

In 2024, out of 15,536 new infections, a significant number were among the youth demographic, surpassing other age groups.

While there was a slight decrease in overall cases compared to 2023, the increase among young people is cause for concern.

“We recognised the need to partner with YEA to empower young individuals, enabling them to make informed decisions and choices regarding their health,” Dr. Akanbong stated.

The initiative will leverage YEA's platform to educate young people, transforming them into ambassadors who spread vital messages and conduct sensitisation programmes within their communities.

The CEO of the Youth Employment Agency, Malik Basintale, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasising the dual objectives of job creation and health education.

This partnership represents a proactive approach to tackle the persistent issue of HIV among Ghana's youth, aiming to foster a generation that is well-informed, responsible, and empowered to make healthy choices.

As the campaign evolves, it is anticipated that it will not only reduce infection rates but also cultivate a culture of awareness and responsibility among young people across the nation.