In a robust demonstration of commitment to public health, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), in collaboration with the Ghana AIDS Commission, has intensified HIV awareness with a massive free health screening exercise at Asafo Market in Kumasi, marking this year’s World AIDS Day.
The outreach, conducted on Friday, targeted traders, shoppers, and the general public, aiming to promote early detection, prevention, and overall health education. Nurses from the Maternal and Child Health Unit at Pampaso led the exercise, engaging participants in detailed discussions about HIV/AIDS, modes of transmission, safe sexual practices, and the critical importance of regular testing.
In addition to HIV education, the team provided screening for blood sugar levels as part of broader health checks. Participants received guidance on maintaining healthy diets and lifestyle practices to prevent diabetes, reflecting the government’s holistic approach to community health.
Madam Felicia Osei Agyemang, Deputy Director and Gender Desk Officer at the KMA, emphasized that the exercise is part of the Assembly’s sustained efforts to reduce new HIV infections while promoting wellness across the metropolis. She highlighted that community-based initiatives such as this are crucial in reaching individuals who may not otherwise access routine health services.
Beneficiaries of the screening exercise expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the KMA and the Ghana AIDS Commission. Traders and shoppers lauded the initiative as both timely and impactful, noting that it provided not only free health services but also vital knowledge on preventing HIV and maintaining general well-being. One trader remarked, “This screening has opened my eyes to how important it is to know your status. I am grateful to KMA and the Ghana AIDS Commission for bringing this service to our doorstep.”
The event concluded with a call from the health team urging the public to prioritize regular health checks and adopt safe lifestyle practices. The KMA reiterated its commitment to supporting similar community health initiatives across Kumasi, aiming to foster a well-informed, healthy, and empowered population.
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