The University of Ghana Medical Centre Ltd (UGMC) marked World AIDS Day on 2 December 2025. The event which is globally celebrated on December 1, aimed to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and promote accessible healthcare services. The occasion served as a reminder of the ongoing fight against the disease and the importance of collective action to combat it.
In the opening remarks, the CEO of UGMC, Dr Abdul-Samed Tanko, emphasised the Centre's commitment to extending essential healthcare services to communities, particularly in urban slums. He urged Ghanaians to take ownership of finding solutions to halt the spread of HIV, especially among young people, and encouraged everyone to get tested and keep others safe. Dr Tanko acknowledged the lives affected by HIV/AIDS and highlighted the urgent need to address gaps in healthcare services.
He also added that the advocacy campaign at UGMC would feature an outreach programme offering free screening for HIV, TB, Hepatitis, and Malaria and a blood drive at a nearby urban slum near UGMC (Ayigbe town), demonstrating UGMC's dedication to making healthcare accessible to all. Dr Tanko stressed the importance of individuals to be ambassadors of their own health by taking proactive steps to take care of themselves.
Subsequent speakers, including our Director of Medical Affairs, Dr. Baffoe Gyan and a Clinical Psychologist and Health Director of Tema Metro, Dr. Sally Quartey. highlighted the progress made in HIV treatment in Ghana and the challenges that persist. They both emphasised the need for continued awareness, education, and action to combat HIV/AIDS. Dr Quartey noted that Ghana had made significant strides in expanding treatment services and introducing new technologies, but stressed that ongoing stigma and discrimination faced by people living with HIV remained pressing concerns.
A message from the Ayawaso Municipal Health Director, Dr. Akua Addo, read on her behalf by Madam Mabel Opoku ( HIV Coordinator for Ayawaso West) highlighted Ghana's progress in responding to HIV, which included the expansion of treatment services and introduction of new technologies. However, the statement also re-emphasized ongoing challenges, including stigma, funding constraints, and the need for increased support for HIV programmes in the wake of dwindling support from western donors. The launch demonstrated renewed commitment by relevant stakeholders to fight HIV/AIDS and promote awareness and education of the disease in Ghana.
The UGMC team continued their outreach efforts on 5 December 2025, conducting health screenings and providing counselling and support to those who tested positive for HIV. At the end of the community outreach event at Ayigbe town, a total of 216 individuals were screened for various ailments and medications were distributed. Five residents who tested positive for HIV, received subsequent support and were linked to treatment and care services.
