The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has raised serious concern over the declining use of condoms among Ghanaian youth, warning that this trend could lead to a sharp rise in new HIV infections and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
According to the Commission, many young people today are engaging in unprotected sex because they no longer see HIV/AIDS as a deadly disease — a dangerous misconception that could reverse the country’s progress in fighting the epidemic.
> “The fear factor is gone. Young people think HIV is no longer a threat because they no longer see people dying like before,”
said Isaiah Doe Kwao, Director of Research, Monitoring and Evaluation at the Ghana AIDS Commission.
Condom Use on the Decline
Despite condoms being widely available and affordable, fewer young people are reportedly using them during sexual activity. The Commission described the situation as “alarming”, pointing out that consistent condom use remains one of the most effective ways to prevent HIV, other STIs, and unintended pregnancies.
Recent data also shows that new HIV infections among people aged 15 to 24 years are on the rise — a worrying signal that risky sexual behaviours are increasing.
Funding Challenges and New Strategy
The Ghana AIDS Commission also revealed that funding for HIV response programmes has declined due to reduced donor support. As a result, the Commission is developing a new Strategic Plan for 2026–2030 aimed at addressing funding gaps, strengthening education campaigns, and revitalizing public awareness about safe sex practices.
Experts Call for Renewed Education
Health experts and advocates are calling for a renewed focus on comprehensive sexual education that goes beyond fear-based messages. They argue that young people need to understand not only the risks of unprotected sex but also the benefits of staying healthy, protecting their partners, and making responsible choices.
> “It’s not just about fear anymore — it’s about empowerment and responsibility,”
one health educator told Citi News.
A Call to Action
The Ghana AIDS Commission is urging all young people to either abstain, stay faithful, or use condoms correctly and consistently. The Commission believes that through stronger awareness campaigns, community engagement, and youth-friendly initiatives, Ghana can prevent a resurgence of HIV infections.
In the words of the Commission, “HIV may not kill as fast as it used to, but it still changes lives forever.”
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Tags: #GhanaAIDSCommission #HIVAwareness #YouthHealth #CondomUse #PublicHealth #SafeSex
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