The Director-General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, Dr. Kharmecelle Prosper Akanbong, has paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Health, Hon. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, at his office in Accra.
The meeting focused on preparing for the 23rd edition of the International Conference on AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA), scheduled for December 3 to 8, 2025.
During the meeting, Dr. Akanbong stressed the urgent need for government financial support to facilitate the conference, which is expected to host over 500 fully sponsored participants from Ghana.
In discussing sustainability, he emphasized the challenges presented by U.S. government policies, which are unfavorable. Nevertheless, he confirmed that conversations regarding sustainability and addressing HIV-related issues are ongoing.
He also discussed plans to establish an HIV fund, as mandated by law. According to him, the draft for this initiative is now in an advanced stage, and steps are being implemented to gather funds for the local sustainability of Ghana’s HIV response.
Dr. Akanbong also revealed efforts to boost local production of antiretroviral medications. He detailed ongoing discussions with GIZ and pharmaceutical companies to facilitate technology transfer and enhance the local pharmaceutical industry.
Hon. Akandoh expressed his gratitude for the visit and praised the Director-General for his commitment to the cause.
He emphasized the importance of careful planning for the international conference, which will gather participants from various countries.
He emphasized the importance of strategic measures to address sustainability challenges and ensure the smooth execution of initiatives.
Hon. Akandoh emphasized the importance of producing local antiretroviral drugs, stating that reviving local pharmaceutical companies that once manufactured these medications is a top priority.
He assured the Director-General of the government’s dedication to implementing the discussed strategies and enhancing Ghana’s response to HIV/AIDS.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/PR Unit
