Ghana Facing Generalised HIV Epidemic – NACP

HIV Epidemic: The National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) has raised serious concerns about the rising rate of HIV infections in Ghana, warning that recent data indicate the country is facing a generalised HIV epidemic rather than infections limited to specific high-risk groups.

According to the NACP, current testing figures reveal alarmingly high HIV prevalence rates among key populations, including female sex workers, men who have sex with men (MSM), and transgender women, signalling a broader public health challenge.

Speaking in an interview on Channel One TV on Friday, January 9, the Head of Prevention, Counselling and Nutrition at the NACP, Ms. Caroline Adonadga, described the situation as worrying and called for urgent national action.

HIV Epidemic – Statistics

She disclosed that recent HIV testing results show that approximately 45 out of every 100 female sex workers tested are HIV-positive, while about 26 out of every 100 men who have sex with men tested positive for the virus. Even more concerning, she revealed that around 48 out of every 100 transgender women who underwent testing were found to be living with HIV.

“When you take female sex workers, out of 100 tested, about 45 test positive for HIV. For men who have sex with men, about 26 out of 100 test positive, and among transgender women, about 48 test positive,” Ms Adonadga stated.

She explained that while these figures reflect particularly high prevalence among key populations, HIV transmission is no longer restricted to specific groups, warning that the virus is widespread across Ghanaian society.

“These statistics show clearly that Ghana is facing a generalised epidemic. HIV is present among children, adolescents and adults. Wherever you go, you will find cases,” she said.

Ms. Adonadga emphasised that the data should serve as a wake-up call for both policymakers and the general public, noting that complacency could reverse gains made over the years in HIV prevention and control.

She called for expanded access to HIV testing and counselling services, especially at the community level, to ensure early detection and treatment. According to her, early diagnosis remains one of the most effective tools for preventing new infections and reducing AIDS-related deaths.

The NACP official also stressed the importance of strengthening preventive interventions, including consistent condom use, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and targeted education campaigns for high-risk groups.

In addition, she urged the sustained implementation of public education programmes to reduce stigma and discrimination, which she identified as major barriers preventing people from accessing testing and treatment services.

“HIV is still very much with us. We need continuous education, stronger prevention strategies and collective responsibility if we are to reduce new infections and protect the health of our population,” she added.

The NACP continues to work with government agencies, civil society organisations and development partners to intensify efforts aimed at curbing the spread of HIV and improving health outcomes for people living with the virus across the country.

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