In a push for sustained public health vigilance following International Condom Day (February 13), Ms. Rita Afriyie, Acting Technical Coordinator at the Ghana AIDS Commission, has
reminded the public that the humble condom remains the nation’s most effective defense against the spread of HIV and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
Speaking in Koforidua, Ms. Afriyie linked sexual health directly to national productivity, noting that a healthy population is a fundamental requirement for the success of Ghana's ongoing economic "Reset."
1. The Triple Benefit of Prevention
Ms. Afriyie highlighted that safer sex practices provide a "triple-win" for the individual and the state:
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Individual Health: Staying free from infections like syphilis, hepatitis B, and HIV.
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Cost Savings: Reducing the financial burden of lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) or complex STI treatments.
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National Economy: A healthy workforce is more productive, boosting the nation’s overall economic activities.
2. Beyond HIV: The Broader STI Threat
While much focus is placed on HIV, the commission warned that other STIs are equally prevalent and can lead to severe long-term complications, including infertility and chronic pain.
| Common STIs in Ghana | Mode of Transmission | Long-term Risk (if untreated) |
| Gonorrhoea/Chlamydia | Vaginal, anal, or oral sex | Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), infertility |
| Syphilis | Skin-to-skin contact, sexual | Organ damage, neurological issues |
| Hepatitis B | Blood and bodily fluids | Liver cirrhosis, liver cancer |
| Genital Herpes | Sexual contact | Chronic outbreaks, increased HIV risk |
3. Quality Matters: Where to Buy
Ms. Afriyie cautioned the public against buying condoms from unverified sources, which may sell products that are expired or have been stored in conditions that degrade the material.
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Approved Outlets: Pharmacies, licensed chemical sellers, and accredited health facilities.
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Mother-to-Child Protection: She reminded the public that infections can also be passed during pregnancy or breastfeeding, making regular screening vital for expectant parents.
4. The 2026 "Test Together" Call
A key pillar of the commission's 2026 strategy is the promotion of couple testing. Ms. Afriyie urged partners to maintain open communication and undergo screening together before starting a sexual relationship.
"Protecting yourself is protecting your partner and protecting the nation. Early testing enables timely treatment and prevents complications." — Ms. Rita Afriyie
The Bottom Line
As International Condom Day 2026 fades into the background, the Ghana AIDS Commission is ensuring that the message of "Correct and Consistent" use stays front and center. With STIs often acting as "silent" infections with no immediate symptoms, the combination of condom use and regular screening at the nearest health facility is the only way to ensure the nation's health remains secure.
