The Ghana AIDS Commission has revealed that over 500,000 people in Ghana are currently living with HIV/AIDS, emphasising the ongoing challenge the country faces in fighting the disease.

According to the Commission, the national HIV prevalence rate stands at approximately 1.7%, with regional disparities. The Eastern Region records the highest rates, while the northern parts of the country report the lowest.

Speaking to Adom News, Dr. Prosper Kharmacelle Akanbong, Assistant Director of the Ghana AIDS Commission, urged revelers participating in this year’s Kwahu Easter festivities to practice safe sex by using condoms to help prevent the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

“There are enough condoms available for free distribution during the celebrations,” Dr. Akanbong stated, encouraging the public to make use of them.

He also highlighted that the rising number of HIV cases is linked to factors such as drug abuse and illegal mining, advising young people to avoid such high-risk behaviors to safeguard their health and future.

Dr. Akanbong stressed that public education, responsible behavior, and access to preventive tools are crucial in curbing the spread of HIV in Ghana.