TheGhana AIDS Commission (GAC) has unveiled a newnational framework for youth-centred HIV interventions, developed with funding and technical support fromUNFPA. The framework aims to guide all stakeholders implementing or planning HIV prevention programmes for young people. As Ghana continues to record a rising number of new infections among the youth, the new document provides a more structured, coordinated and practical approach to addressing the challenge.
Why the New HIV Youth Framework Matters
The framework combines both an implementation guide and a governance and management structure, making it more comprehensive than previous youth-focused HIV documents. It serves as a practical tool for organisations initiating or running HIV programmes, ensuring consistency, collaboration and targeted interventions across sectors.
During a dissemination meeting in Accra last Friday, the GAC officially presented the framework to development partners, civil society groups and other stakeholders in the HIV space.
Rationale Behind the Framework
Dr Fred Nana Poku, Director of Technical Services at the GAC, explained that young people continue to account for a significant share of new HIV infections in the country.
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In 2023, over 1,900 new HIV cases were recorded among young people, representing 23% of all infections.
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In 2024, the number increased to about 4,700, representing 30% of all new infections nationwide.
He noted that youth-focused interventions in Ghana have been inadequate, erratic and fragmented, making it difficult to achieve long-term impact. The new framework therefore provides a structured, coordinated national approach to ensure young people are placed at the centre of HIV prevention efforts.
“The dissemination of the framework represents a renewed commitment to ensuring that young people are at the centre of our HIV response,” Dr Poku stated.
According to him, the framework prioritises:
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Equipping young people with accurate information
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Ensuring youth-friendly, confidential, stigma-free services
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Strengthening collaboration with government, civil society and youth-led organisations
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Leveraging digital platforms and peer networks to reach young people more effectively
Key Focus Areas of the Framework
Dr Poku outlined four priority areas:
1. Integrating HIV Prevention into Youth Development Programmes
Organisations are encouraged to embed HIV education and prevention activities into existing youth development initiatives.
2. Partnering with Experienced HIV Service Providers
The framework promotes collaboration with institutions that already have strong experience in HIV prevention and service delivery.
3. Supporting Strong Youth Leadership
Youth groups and youth-led organisations will be given more space and resources to lead interventions.
4. Promoting Youth-Focused and Youth-Led HIV Programme Strategies
The framework encourages approaches that resonate with young people and reflect their realities.
UNFPA Calls for Tailored Interventions for Young People
Dela Bright Gle, Programme Specialist for Sexual and Reproductive Health at UNFPA Ghana, noted that HIV prevalence among young people is often a key indicator of new infections. With Ghana maintaining a largely youthful population, she stressed the need for targeted, youth-friendly and innovative strategies to reduce vulnerability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why are youth-centred HIV interventions important?
Young people currently contribute up to 30% of new HIV infections in Ghana, making them a critical target group for prevention.
2. What is new about this framework?
Unlike earlier documents, this framework includes governance and management systems, making it practical for programme implementers.
3. Who can use the framework?
Government agencies, NGOs, youth-led organisations, health facilities and any stakeholder involved in youth or HIV programmes.
4. How does the framework help young people?
It ensures they have access to accurate information, supportive services, and programmes specifically designed to meet their needs.
