World AIDS Day: KMA Partners Ghana AIDS Commission to Boost Testing and Prevention in Asafo
In a strong demonstration of commitment to public health, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), in collaboration with the Ghana AIDS Commission, organized a large-scale free health screening exercise at Asafo Market in Kumasi as part of this year’s World AIDS Day observances.
The outreach, held on Friday, aimed to educate traders, shoppers, and market operators on HIV/AIDS prevention, safe sexual practices, and the importance of early detection through regular testing. Nurses from the Maternal and Child Health Unit at Pampaso led the exercise, engaging participants in interactive sessions to address common misconceptions about HIV and promote voluntary testing.
In addition to HIV education, the health team screened participants for blood sugar levels, providing guidance on healthy eating habits and lifestyle modifications to prevent diabetes. This dual approach highlighted the government’s commitment to promoting holistic community health.
Madam Felicia Osei Agyemang, Deputy Director and Gender Desk Officer at the KMA, reaffirmed the Assembly’s dedication to supporting community health initiatives. She noted that outreach programmes such as this are critical in reducing new infections and empowering residents with the knowledge to make informed health choices.
Beneficiaries of the exercise expressed heartfelt appreciation to the KMA and the Ghana AIDS Commission for the initiative. Traders and shoppers praised the exercise for bringing essential health services directly to their workplace and community. One participant said, “I am grateful for this programme. It has given me important information about HIV and allowed me to check my health for free. The KMA and Ghana AIDS Commission are doing a great job.”
The exercise concluded with a call for all market operators and members of the public to prioritize regular health screenings, adopt safe and healthy lifestyles, and participate in future community health initiatives.
This exercise forms part of a broader national strategy to strengthen public health education, reduce new HIV infections, and foster a healthier, well-informed population across the Kumasi metropolis.
