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Ghana marks World AIDS Day, urges stronger national response
Government has joined the global community to observe World AIDS Day, using the occasion to renew its commitment to ending HIV and AIDS in the country.
In a statement, it noted that the day provides an opportunity to reflect on progress made, honour those lost to AIDS and strengthen national efforts toward an AIDS free Ghana.
This year’s global theme is Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response, while Ghana’s national sub theme is Africa unites against AIDS.
Government explained that although Ghana has made progress with prevention, treatment and care, HIV remains a major public health concern.
It said national estimates show more than 334,700 people are living with HIV, adding that in 2024 the country recorded over 15,200 new infections and more than 12,600 AIDS related deaths.
It also acknowledged that prevention efforts have sometimes been inconsistent and that stigma remains high.
To protect essential services, Government outlined a number of steps it has taken. It recalled that in February 2025, the President directed the Ministry of Finance to secure funding for core HIV services following cuts in external support.
It also noted that Cabinet has approved a revised National Workplace HIV and Wellness Policy to improve prevention and reduce stigma at the workplace. In addition, it has launched the National HIV Response Sustainability Roadmap to expand access to prevention and treatment and ensure long term resilience.
Government further stressed the importance of stronger private sector involvement.
It reminded businesses that HIV affects productivity and economic growth, and urged them to invest in workplace HIV programmes, support public education campaigns and implement policies that protect workers.
It commended health workers, private organisations and civil society partners for their continuous efforts in supporting the national response.
Government encouraged the public to know their HIV status, use HIV self test kits, seek early treatment and reject stigma and discrimination.
It urged Corporate Ghana to adopt the National Workplace HIV and Wellness Policy and work with it to build a sustainable response.
By: Jacob Aggrey
Muslims across the country celebrated this year’s Eid-ul-Adha in a colourful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere under the theme, “A Season of Sacrifice, Solidarity and Spiritual Renewal.”
The celebration brought together Muslims from diverse backgrounds in a remarkable display of faith, unity and cultural heritage.
The occasion was marked by special Eid prayers at various designated grounds, the slaughtering of rams in homes for sharing among family members, friends and the less privileged, as well as musical concerts and recreational activities including horse riding.
Leading the celebration was the Chief Imam, Dr Sheikh Osman Sharubutu.
While the national celebration was held at the Black Star Square where President John Dramani Mahama was the Special Guest of Honour, similar gatherings took place at different centres across the capital and other regions of the country.
A visit by The Spectator to some celebration grounds revealed Muslims, both young and old, elegantly dressed in colourful jalabiya and other Islamic attire, reflecting the rich culture and traditions of the Muslim community.
The celebration also portrayed the spirit of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the country, as a number of Christians joined their Muslim counterparts to mark the occasion.
Muslim leaders and government officials used the opportunity to call on the faithful to uphold the teachings of the Holy Quran, renew their spiritual commitment and refrain from acts capable of undermining the peace, unity and security of the nation.
They further urged Ghanaians to continue to live in harmony and support one another for national development.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
Dear Obaa Yaa,
During Eid-ul- Adha celebration, I decided to spend the weekend at my boyfriend’s place since we were planning towards our marriage.
To my surprise, what keeps me wide awake, restless and frustrated every single time is that he snores loudly like a generator running on full power, and I genuinely cannot get any rest
At a point, I thought it was just a normal thing, but I have realised it is something he does with ease and doesn’t see anything wrong with it.
When he steps out in the morning, I try to get enough sleep because I may not sleep in the evening.
The most annoying thing is that, he always wants to cuddle me. These two things are a no for me and a red flag.
We are about to get married, what should I do?
Enam, Keta.
Dear Enam,
The snoring and constant cuddling are frustrating, but you don’t have to choose between sleep and closeness.
Start with the snoring: check if it’s worse when he sleeps on his back, cut out alcohol before bed, try nasal strips or a humidifier, and see a doctor if he pauses while breathing.
For quick relief, foam earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones help a lot.
Separate blankets, a bigger bed, or sleeping apart on some nights often makes couples rest well and feel closer overall.
Bring this up before the wedding .Tell him you want to wake up next to him for years to come, but sleep deprivation makes you both miserable.
Test earplugs and side-sleeping this weekend, and if it’s still unbearable, bring in a doctor. Good sleep matters more for your marriage than staying glued together all night.
