In a decisive move to advance public health and HIV awareness, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), in collaboration with the Ghana AIDS Commission, conducted a large-scale free health screening and education exercise at Asafo Market, Kumasi, as part of activities marking this year’s World AIDS Day.
The initiative, held on Friday, targeted traders, shoppers, and market operators, aiming to provide critical health education, early detection opportunities, and preventive care services. Nurses from the Maternal and Child Health Unit at Pampaso led the outreach, sensitizing the public on HIV/AIDS prevention, modes of transmission, and the importance of safe sexual practices. Participants were also educated on the necessity of regular testing to reduce new infections and ensure timely access to treatment for those affected.
In addition to HIV-focused interventions, the health team screened participants for blood sugar levels, providing guidance on adopting healthier diets and lifestyle practices to prevent diabetes. This comprehensive approach reflects the government’s commitment to promoting holistic community health and wellness.
Madam Felicia Osei Agyemang, Deputy Director and Gender Desk Officer at the KMA, reiterated the Assembly’s dedication to supporting community-based health initiatives. She emphasized that such outreach programmes are instrumental in reaching individuals who may not routinely access healthcare services, fostering a culture of preventive health within the metropolis.
Beneficiaries of the exercise expressed heartfelt gratitude to both the KMA and the Ghana AIDS Commission for bringing these essential services directly to their community. Traders and shoppers praised the initiative for its timeliness and impact. One participant noted, “This screening has enlightened me about HIV prevention and helped me check my health. I am very thankful to the KMA and the Ghana AIDS Commission for this important programme.”
The event concluded with a call to the public to prioritize regular health screenings, adopt safer lifestyle practices, and encourage others to participate in similar health initiatives.
This outreach forms part of a broader national strategy by the Government of Ghana to strengthen health education, reduce the prevalence of HIV, and empower communities to take proactive steps toward maintaining their well-being.
