The government has admonished institutions across the country to invest in programmes aimed at sustaining efforts in the response to HIV/AIDS.
“HIV affects the workforce, productivity and economic growth,” a statement issued by government to commemorate World AIDS Day.
“It is therefore in the interest of businesses to invest in workplace HIV programmes, support awareness and testing campaigns, and implement policies that protect employees.”
This year’s Day is themed: ‘Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response’.
According to the statement signed by the Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the country has adopted the sub-theme of ‘Africa Unites Against AIDS’, emphasising regional solidarity and shares responsibility in accelerating progress and protecting the health and wellbeing of all citizens.
It noted that despite the significant progress, the disease still poses a major health concern.
Current estimates put more than 334,700 people as living with HIV with over 15,200 new cases recorded in 2024 and more than 12,600 AIDS-related deaths.
“Prevention efforts have at times lacked consistency and stigma against persons living with HIV persists at unacceptably high levels.”