Omanghana
The Bono Region of Ghana has recorded 1,145 new HIV infections between January and May 2026, raising concerns among public health officials over increasing transmission rates and persistent challenges in HIV prevention and testing.
The figures were disclosed by the Bono Regional Technical Coordinator of the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC), Ahmed Ibrahim Bambilla, who warned that the region continues to face significant public health pressures driven by stigma, low testing levels, and risky behaviors among vulnerable populations.
The latest data places Bono among Ghana’s regions with the highest HIV burden, highlighting the urgent need for stronger prevention and awareness campaigns.
Women Account for Majority of New Cases
The five-month surveillance report revealed a significant gender imbalance in newly recorded infections.
Out of the 1,145 new cases:
- 785 were females
- 360 were males
Health officials say the disparity reflects ongoing vulnerabilities affecting women, including social, economic, and behavioral factors that contribute to higher infection risks.
Sunyani Leads Regional Infection Figures
The distribution of new infections shows that urban and economically active areas remain major hotspots.
The areas recording the highest number of cases include:
- Sunyani Municipality – the highest concentration of new infections.
- Sunyani West District – recording a significant number of cases.
- Berekum Municipality – identified as another major infection hotspot.
The Bono Region currently has an HIV prevalence rate of 2.23%, making it the third-highest among Ghana’s 16 regions and significantly above the national average.
Factors Driving Rising HIV Transmission
Health authorities have identified several factors contributing to the region’s growing HIV numbers.
Cross-Border Movement and Trade
Bono’s position as a major commercial and transport corridor linking Ghana with neighboring Côte d’Ivoire has created highly mobile communities.
Officials say frequent movement of traders, transport workers, and migrants can increase exposure risks if prevention measures are not consistently followed.
Declining Condom Use
Health monitoring data indicates a worrying decline in consistent condom use, particularly during high-risk sexual encounters.
Authorities say reduced protection practices remain a major contributor to new infections.
Misconceptions About HIV Treatment
The success of modern Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) has improved the lives of people living with HIV, but health officials say it has also created a false sense of security among some members of the public.
With HIV now manageable through treatment, some individuals no longer view the virus as a serious health threat, resulting in increased risky behavior.
Stigma Preventing Early Testing
Persistent stigma remains one of the biggest obstacles to HIV prevention efforts.
Health officials say fear of discrimination discourages some people from voluntarily testing, allowing individuals who are unaware of their status to unknowingly transmit the virus.
Emergency Measures to Contain the Spread
In response to the rising infections, the Ghana AIDS Commission and regional health authorities are expanding prevention and treatment interventions across the Bono Region.
Key measures include:
- Increased HIV testing campaigns to identify infections earlier.
- Expanded community education programs to promote prevention.
- Efforts to reduce stigma surrounding HIV testing and treatment.
- Faster linkage of people who test positive to ART services.
Health workers emphasize that early diagnosis and immediate treatment can help people living with HIV achieve viral suppression, significantly reducing the risk of transmission.
Call for Greater Community Support
Public health officials are urging residents to prioritize regular testing, practice safer sexual behaviors, and support efforts aimed at eliminating discrimination against people living with HIV.
Authorities believe that combining stronger prevention programs with increased awareness and access to treatment will be critical to reducing new infections and improving health outcomes across the Bono Region.
Source: Omanghana
