Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has expressed concern about the increasing prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the country, despite significant efforts to curb its spread and potentially eradicate it.

He stated that the disease continues to affect many people and must be addressed urgently. "It is a matter of great concern," he remarked.

The Minister acknowledged the progress Ghana had made in combating HIV/AIDS, noting the significant strides achieved through years of dedicated efforts. "This country has suffered for many years in the battle against HIV/AIDS," he said.

In a meeting with a team led by Dr Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, acting Director General of the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC), the Minister urged the Commission to intensify its efforts in combating the disease, given the dangers posed by the virus.

Although Ghana has made considerable progress, the Minister noted that complacency had begun to set in among stakeholders, potentially reversing the gains made in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

"An important lesson we must learn is to stay focused," the Minister advised, urging those leading the campaign to maintain their commitment. He stressed that the alarming statistics from the Western Region regarding HIV/AIDS prevalence are concerning. "The situation in the Western Region is particularly alarming," he noted.

He called for all stakeholders to come together and retrace their steps to make meaningful progress in addressing the issue. "All the stakeholders must be brought on board to retrace the right steps for us to make meaningful progress," he stated.

Minister Nelson praised the Director-General for leveraging his network to initiate swift action following his appointment. "Your presence here will make a significant impact," he remarked.

He urged health workers and key stakeholders in the fight against HIV/AIDS to intensify their efforts, stressing the importance of making a positive change in the region. "Bring in some positive change," he said.

Additionally, the Minister called for a concerted effort to improve the operational tactics of those leading the campaign. "How we partner and work together is crucial. I am going to be available to support you," he assured.

He expressed confidence that the impact of such collaboration would be evident by next year, marking a positive shift in the ongoing fight. "I will do everything I can to get the MMDCEs (Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives) to understand where we are and what we need to do. That commitment to improving performance must come from the MMDCEs," he emphasised.

The Minister reiterated his unwavering support for the Ghana AIDS Commission, stating, "You have my full support, and you will have the support of all MMDCEs, so we can see meaningful progress."

Dr Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, acting Director General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and updated the Minister on the current HIV/AIDS prevalence rate. He reaffirmed that addressing HIV/AIDS is a priority for stakeholders across the country.

He explained that the Commission's mandate is to coordinate the national response, secure funding, and provide accurate data on the prevalence of the virus. Dr Akanbong acknowledged the Commission's progress but warned that neglecting the issue would lead to setbacks in the fight against the virus.

The Director-General appealed to the Minister to intervene and secure support for focal persons to help tackle HIV/AIDS in regions that require focused attention. The Ghana AIDS Commission works with local focal persons as part of decentralising the HIV/AIDS campaign across the country.

Dr Akanbong highlighted the lack of funds for focal persons as a significant challenge in the fight against HIV/AIDS. He called on the Minister to assist in securing support from local assemblies to empower focal persons in their respective areas.

The national HIV prevalence rate currently stands at 1.53%, compared to 1.82% in the Western Region. Dr. Akanbong emphasised that while progress has been made, sustained attention is needed to maintain these gains.

He also cited illegal mining (galamsey) activities in the region as a major factor contributing to the spread of the virus and stressed the need for stronger collaboration in addressing the root causes of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

A concerted effort to address both the virus and its underlying causes, he concluded, is essential in the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS.