The Ministry of Health has rejected claims of a shortage of antiretroviral medicines (ARVs) in Ghana, assuring persons living with HIV that the drugs remain available at designated health facilities across the country.

The Ministry’s response follows concerns raised by the Network of Persons Living with HIV in Ghana (NAP+Ghana), which had warned about an alleged shortage of the life-saving medicines.

In a statement signed by its Spokesperson, Tony Goodman, on Tuesday, August 11, the Ministry said it was inaccurate to suggest that ARVs were unavailable in Ghana.

“It is not accurate that antiretroviral medicines are unavailable in the country. ARVs are available at designated health facilities across Ghana to support the continued treatment and care of persons living with HIV,” the Ministry stated.

The Ministry said it was taking steps under its routine procurement and supply arrangements to ensure the continued availability of essential medicines.

It said the measures were aimed at sustaining supplies and ensuring the timely distribution of medicines and other essential health commodities to health facilities nationwide.

The Ministry, however, did not provide details on the current stock levels of ARVs or whether there are isolated supply challenges at particular health facilities.

The Ministry also rejected claims that ARVs had expired at the port.

“The Ministry wishes to clarify that it is incorrect to suggest that antiretroviral medicines have expired at the port,” it said.

It added that it was working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the effective management and timely clearance of medical commodities.

The Ministry said it had engaged NAP+Ghana over the concerns raised and assured the organisation of its willingness to address issues relating to the availability and distribution of ARVs

“We remain committed to constructive engagement with all stakeholders to ensure that persons living with HIV have uninterrupted access to the medicines and services they require,” the statement said.

The Ministry assured persons living with HIV and the wider public that it would continue to take steps to safeguard access to essential medicines and ensure the equitable distribution of ARVs

The clarification comes amid concerns from HIV advocacy groups over the availability of the medicines, which are critical to the continued treatment and management of HIV.

While the Ministry maintains that ARVs are available at designated facilities, continued monitoring of stocks and distribution will be important to prevent disruptions to treatment for persons living with HIV.