According to figures given by the Ghana AIDS Commission, there were 12, 614 AIDS-related deaths and 15, 290 new HIV infections in Ghana in 2024.

Government and health experts have once again called for fair resource distribution and immediate measures to stop the epidemic in response to the alarming statistics.

Speaking at the 2024 HIV and AIDS Estimates and Projections launch on Thursday, July 3, in Accra, Deputy Chief of Staff at the Presidency Nana Oye Bampoe Addo called the figures a wake-up call for stakeholders to prioritize funding and customize regional strategies to close service delivery gaps.
“We must not overlook the sovereign reality of 12,614 AIDS-related deaths in the country. These gaps must urge us to focus on equitable resource allocation and tailored regional solutions to address the AIDS pandemic in Ghana,” she emphasised.

According to the 2024 study, 334,721 Ghanaians are estimated to be HIV positive at this time, with a countrywide prevalence rate of 1.49% among persons aged 15 to 49. The projections are a vital source of information for worldwide reporting and planning.Nana Oye reiterated the government’s commitment to obtaining money to fortify the national response, adding that the administration is actively looking into both domestic and alternative sources to avoid interfering with HIV/AIDS interventions.

“Government is working to close the funding gap to ensure there is no disruption in service delivery,” she stated.

Dr. Kharmacelle Akanbong, acting director-general of the Ghana AIDS Commission, also emphasized the need to address vulnerable populations’ needs and geographical disparities.

Conversely, the North East Region recorded the lowest new infections (97) and the lowest adult HIV prevalence (0.43%). Bono Region had the highest adult prevalence at 2.22%, with Dormaa East District topping all districts at 5.36%.

Progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets remains below expectations. The data shows that:

68% of people living with HIV know their status, 69% of those are receiving treatment, and 90% of those on treatment have achieved viral suppression.

“The epidemic continues to affect lives across the country. Addressing these inequities must remain at the heart of our national response if we are to leave no one behind,” he said.

The forum also featured representatives from key development partners, including WHO, UNAIDS, the CDC, and the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP), who pledged continued support.

Disparities by region are still a major worry. There are more HIV-positive individuals in the Greater Accra Region (77,821) than in the Ashanti (54,824) or Eastern (42,386) regions. Furthermore, it had the most new infections (3,436).

Conclusion and Recommendations:

All parties involved were advised by the Ghana AIDS Commission to increase HIV prevention efforts, encourage safer sexual behavior, and increase access to testing and treatment. In order to obtain life-saving care and bring the epidemic under control, the Commission emphasized that finding out one’s HIV status is still a crucial first step.

Osei Kwame, also known as “Nsafufoo,” was arrested by the Ghana Police Service for illegally acquiring and donning a police uniform without permission.

When the suspect appeared visibly drunk in a widely shared video while wearing full police uniforms, the public became alarmed and the authorities acted quickly.

In the Ashanti Region’s Manso Nkwanta District, near Antoakrom, the arrest was made.

Osei Kwame is presently being held and cooperating with ongoing investigations, according to police sources.

In addition to cautioning the public against impersonation and the improper usage of official police uniforms, the Ghana Police Service reaffirmed its dedication to upholding the uniform’s integrity.

The 2025 Bugum (Fire) Festival in Tamale and the surrounding areas has been formally canceled by the Gbewaa Palace because of growing security concerns.

The overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Ya-Na Abubakari II, and important players, including traditional leaders, security services, and pertinent authorities, held lengthy deliberations before making the decision.

The palace claimed in a statement on Thursday, July 3, 2025, that the step was necessary to maintain peace, unity, and public safety because of growing tensions between some local factions.

“This decision comes in response to emerging tensions among certain factions in the area and reflects a deep commitment to safeguarding peace, unity, and the safety of all citizens,” the statement noted.

The Ya-Na emphasized that upholding societal harmony must come first at this time, even if they acknowledged the Bugum Festival’s cultural value to the Dagbon people.

“While the Ndan Ya-Na recognises the rich cultural heritage and profound significance of the Fire Festival to the people. The paramount concern at this time is the preservation of harmony and the prevention of any activities that could heighten existing tensions,” the statement added.

Traditional leaders have been instructed to keep their communities informed and to assist in attempts to keep things peaceful and secure during this time.

In support of efforts to promote peace, the Ya-Na also urged locals to continue being kind and watchful.

“The Ndan Ya-Na appeals to all residents to remain vigilant, cooperative, and steadfast in upholding the peace that is vital for the progress and well-being of the area. It is the hope of the Ndan Ya-Naa that the Festival will resume in the near future under more favourable and peaceful circumstances,” the statement said.