The Ghana AIDS Commission has raised concerns over rising HIV infections among young people aged 15–24, attributing the surge largely to decreasing condom use amid high-risk sexual behaviors.
Director-General Dr. Steve Kyeremeh Atuahene noted that in 2023, of the 17,774 new HIV cases recorded, approximately 4,869 were among youth aged 15–24.
Risky practices like transactional sex, multiple partners, and unprotected encounters are fueling the spread.
Condom use remains worryingly low: data from a 2024 screening in the Western Region showed only about 11 % of sexually active youth reported using condoms during their last sex, despite over 80 % of infections stemming from unprotected intercourse.
This aligns with broader DHS findings indicating low usage even among those with multiple partners
Recent demographic studies further confirm chronic low condom uptake: 79 % of young women and 68 % of young men aged 15–24 did not use a condom during their most recent sexual encounter, with testing rates equally dismal 87 % of young men and 68 % of young women had never been tested for HIV.
Behaviour-change advocates warn that “condom fatigue” and complacency- especially as HIV symptoms become less visible, are enabling dangerous narratives among youth who believe the epidemic is over.
Ghana Statistical Service surveys show only a minority of sexually-active youth consistently use protection despite recognizing the risks.
The Ghana AIDS Commission is urging a revitalization of prevention campaigns emphasizing the ABC strategy; Abstinence, Be-faithful, Condom use and the importance of testing and reducing casual and transactional sex.
They call for renewed access to condoms, enhanced sexual education, targeted outreach, and youth-focused testing initiatives to curb the trend and protect public health.
