Our Community Voice of Strength

By NAP+ Ghana Editorial Every February 28, the world marks Raising Awareness of HIV is Not a Crime Day—a reminder that people living with HIV are not criminals, and their health status should never be used to discriminate against them. Yet, in Ghana and many parts of the world, stigma, discrimination, and harmful laws continue to create barriers for people living with HIV (PLHIV), making it difficult for them to access care, stay on treatment, and live fulfilling lives. But here’s the truth: HIV is no longer a death sentence, and thanks to scientific advancements, people living with HIV can lead long healthy lives. There Is Life After Testing Positive For many young people, discovering their HIV status can feel like the end of the world. The fear of rejection, societal judgment, and uncertainty about the future can be overwhelming. However, science has rewritten the story of HIV. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is now so effective that it allows PLHIV to live just as long as anyone else, ...

By Richard Agodzo - NAP+ Ghana Ghana stands at a critical juncture in its HIV response. As we transition into a new administration with a newly appointed Director General of the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC), it is imperative to reflect on the realities facing persons living with HIV (PLHIV) and the broader national strategy to sustain and improve the response to the epidemic. The decisions made now will determine whether Ghana can meet its global commitments and protect the lives of thousands who depend on HIV-related healthcare and services. The needs of persons living with HIV are best understood by those within the PLHIV community. HIV interventions must align with the realities of PLHIV, ensuring that their voices are at the heart of decision-making processes. Regardless of who is leading or implementing these interventions, they must be tailored to meet the diverse needs of PLHIVs across Ghana. As PLHIV, we live with the virus, and the virus lives with us. Our experiences with anti...