First Lady H.E. Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama has called for a stronger national commitment to ending AIDS by 2030, rallying Ghanaians—especially traditional and religious leaders—to champion healthy lifestyles and responsible behaviour.
She made the appeal in Sunyani on Thursday while leading a community health screening exercise organized in partnership with the Ghana AIDS Commission. The activity is the second in a nationwide series, following the maiden session held in Accra.
Addressing participants, Mrs. Mahama urged influential community leaders to use their platforms to promote compassion, openness, and honest conversations about health. She stressed the importance of parents engaging their children on issues of sexuality and health, and encouraged teachers to provide guidance that helps break the stigma surrounding HIV.
The First Lady revealed that over 334,000 Ghanaians are currently living with HIV, with the Bono Region among the hardest-hit areas. She described the trend as worrying and underscored the need for continuous public education, prevention efforts, early testing, and proper treatment.
As President of the Lordina Foundation, she highlighted that national development depends heavily on a healthy population. “Health is the foundation upon which development is built,” she said, adding that making health services accessible strengthens the country’s future.
Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, Dormaahene and President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, also expressed concern about rising HIV infections in the region, particularly among people aged 25 to 40. He emphasized that the screening was a vital public health effort—not a political activity—and encouraged residents to take advantage of the service.
The event also featured a testimony from Sister Diana, who has lived with HIV since 1989. Sharing her experience with stigma, she said support from her children motivated her to remain resilient and to educate others as an advocate for HIV awareness. She noted that with proper care, people living with HIV can lead long, healthy, and productive live
