Over a hundred HIV-positive cases have been recorded since the distribution of self-testing kits in July 2023, according to Programme Manager of the National Aids Control Programme (NACP), Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo.

He noted that the patronage of self-testing kits had been massive, with more than a hundred to two hundred thousand people using the test.

The self-tests have identified a significant number of positive cases, allowing for early detection and intervention in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

“We are now collating data from our constituencies….we have picked not less than hundred positive cases, who would have been missed if the self-test kits were not available,” he added.

He noted that the initiative aimed to increase HIV testing, encourage people to know their status, and address the challenge of delayed treatment.

The self-testing initiative supports Ghana's goal to achieve the UNAIDS 95-95-95 target by the end of 2025, which calls for 95% of people living with HIV to know their status, 95% of diagnosed individuals to receive sustained antiretroviral therapy, and 95% of those on therapy to achieve viral suppression.

At the National Launch of the HIV Self-Testing in Accra, Mr Kwaku Agyeman Manu, the Health Minister, said the availability of the kit was an effort in the quest to create a healthier nation, while bridging the gap in testing coverage among hard-to-reach populations.

He said: “The initiative is receiving massive response and we are happy because it is achieving two things, bringing people into care who otherwise will not have come to the facility for testing as well as linking people to HIV care services for (pre-exposure prophylaxis).

The Programme Manager expressed concern that approximately 80% of individuals who accepted self-testing had never undergone testing before, emphasizing the need for increased advocacy to achieve the first 95 in the UNAIDS 95-95-95 target. The self-testing initiative is part of efforts to create a healthier nation, enhance testing coverage, and address delayed treatment for individuals living with HIV.

The Programme Manager expressed concern that approximately 80% of individuals who accepted self-testing had never undergone testing before, emphasizing the need for increased advocacy to achieve the first 95 in the UNAIDS 95-95-95 target. The self-testing initiative is part of efforts to create a healthier nation, enhance testing coverage, and address delayed treatment for individuals living with HIV.

The Programme Manager advised the public to avoid stigma and to support individuals living with HIV, encouraging them to seek treatment openly. He also urged everyone to take advantage of the currently free initiative to know their HIV status for immediate care and support.

“At this day and age no one should die from HIV because there is treatment, let us all create an enabling environment to support one another,” Dr Ayisi Addo said.