National HIV Ambassador Nana Yaa Nsarko challenges youth to know their HIV status and prevent spread

In a powerful call to action, Queen Lady Nana Yaa Nsarko, Miss Malaika 2023 and National HIV Ambassador, addressed young Ghanaians during her "Live On Campaign" on the Ayi Mensa–Aburi mountain stretch.

The campaign, which took place early Saturday morning, saw many young men and women gathered for their routine exercise up the hill, where Nana Yaa Nsarko seized the opportunity to educate them on HIV prevention and distribute condoms.

Amidst the rising tide of HIV infections in Ghana, the Ghana AIDS Commission and its partners, including the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) of the Ghana Health Service, estimated the 2023 national adult HIV prevalence at 1.53%. This translates to approximately 334,095 people living with HIV in Ghana, comprising 316,545 adults and 17,550 children.

Addressing the crowd, Queen Lady Nana Yaa Nsarko urged the youth to be bold in knowing their HIV status. "Self-testing is a simple, private, and empowering way to take control of your health," she emphasized. She encouraged the youth not to condemn themselves but to "condom themselves," highlighting that one mistake is all it takes to contract HIV, and prevention is paramount.

During the event, Nana Yaa Nsarko distributed condoms and provided vital information on HIV prevention. "Knowledge is power," she stated, "and knowing your status, irrespective of what it is, will give you the power to 'Live On' and make informed decisions about your health and future."

Her campaign is a timely response to the current surge in HIV infections, aiming to empower the youth with the knowledge and tools necessary to curb the spread of the virus. The "Live On Campaign" underscores the importance of proactive health measures and community support in the fight against HIV.