Josiah
The Bono Region is facing a worrying rise in HIV cases, with more than 19,000 people currently living with the virus, according to new data from the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC).
Ahmed Ibrahim Bambila, the Regional Technical Coordinator for GAC in Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo, shared the troubling statistics during the inauguration of the Bono Regional HIV/AIDS Committee (RECCOM) in Sunyani on Thursday.
He described the situation as alarming, noting that 875 new HIV infections were recorded in the region just last year. This sharp increase has raised serious concerns and renewed calls for stronger, united efforts to address the underlying causes of the outbreak and prevent further spread.
At 2.22%, Bono’s HIV prevalence rate among people aged 15–49 is significantly higher than the national average. This highlights the urgent need for targeted education, prevention programs, and support services in the region.
According to Bambila, several factors are fueling the rise in infections — including low condom use, multiple sexual partners, stigma and discrimination, and insufficient sexual health education. He added that migration, transactional sex, and limited access to HIV-related services are also making it harder to control the epidemic.
To respond to these challenges, a new nine-member regional committee has been formed under the leadership of the Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa. The committee will spearhead HIV-related initiatives and advocacy, working to reduce stigma, promote safer sexual behaviors, and expand 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 professionals, community leaders, civil society, and traditional authorities — to join forces,” Bambila urged.
The GAC is calling for stronger community-based interventions and closer collaboration across sectors to improve awareness, prevention, and access to care. Bambila emphasized that tackling the crisis requires a comprehensive approach involving education, policy support, better health systems, and a consistent fight against stigma.
“We must empower communities with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their health,” he added.
Source: Omanghana.com
