President John Dramani Mahama has expressed deep concern over the increasing number of HIV infections among Ghana’s youth, attributing the trend to persistent gaps in education, communication, and access to support services.

His remarks follow the release of the Ghana AIDS Commission’s 2024 report, which recorded 15,290 new HIV cases. Of these, 11,289 were among adults aged 15 and above, with a significant portion affecting young people.

Speaking at the launch of Ghana’s Voluntary National Report on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), President Mahama explained the urgent need for a more inclusive and action-oriented response that extends beyond traditional awareness campaigns.

“We are alarmed by the rising HIV rates, especially among young people. This reflects failures in communication, persistent stigma, and inadequate access to sexual health education,” he said.

The President called for greater collaboration among schools, health professionals, parents, and the media to address the issue, stressing that young people must be at the center of all prevention efforts.

“Prevention is essential, but empowerment is the key,” he added.

President Mahama also highlighted another serious public health challenge, the high prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women in Ghana.

“It is said that 50% of pregnant women in Ghana suffer from some form of anaemia. So this is a direct reflection of poor nutrition, inequality, and inadequate health education. Addressing this is not a choice but a necessity for our mother and children’s future,” he noted.

The President’s remarks form part of broader calls for strengthened investment in health systems, youth empowerment, and nutrition programs, as Ghana works toward achieving its SDG targets.