Nearly 20,000 people living with HIV in Bono Region – Ghana AIDS Commission
The Bono Region is grappling with a rising HIV crisis, with over 19,000 individuals living with the virus, according to the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC).
Ahmed Ibrahim Bambila, the Regional Technical Coordinator for the Ghana AIDS Commission in Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo, revealed these shocking statistics during the inauguration of the Bono Regional HIV/AIDS Committee (RECCOM) in Sunyani on Thursday.
Bambila emphasized that the statistics are deeply concerning, with 875 new HIV infections recorded in the region in the past year. This uptick in cases has sparked alarms, prompting calls for stronger, coordinated interventions to tackle the root causes of the epidemic and prevent further spread.
The Bono Region’s HIV prevalence rate stands at 2.22% among individuals aged 15-49, which is significantly higher than the national average. This figure highlights a growing need for targeted education, intervention, and support in the area.
Bambila stated that factors such as low condom usage, multiple sexual partners, stigma, discrimination, and inadequate sexual health education are contributing to the rising number of HIV cases. Additionally, issues such as migration, transactional sex, and limited access to HIV-related services further complicate efforts to control the spread of the virus.
To address these challenges, a new 9-member regional committee has been established under the leadership of Joseph Addae Akwaboa, the Bono Regional Minister. The committee will play a key role in leading HIV-related programs and advocacy efforts across the region, focusing on reducing stigma, increasing safe sexual practices, and improving access to testing and treatment.
“We cannot afford to ignore the alarming rise in HIV infections in Bono. It’s time for all stakeholders — health workers, community leaders, civil society organizations, and traditional authorities — to come together and step up efforts,” Bambila stated.
The GAC has called for enhanced community-based efforts, urging all sectors of society to collaborate on awareness campaigns, prevention strategies, and healthcare accessibility. Bambila stressed that successful interventions depend on a multi-faceted approach that includes education, policy advocacy, improved healthcare infrastructure, and reduced stigma.
“We must empower communities with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their health,” Bambila added.
