Long distance drivers enlightened on HIV

Accra, Oct. 22, GNA – The Ghana Ports and
Harbours Authority (GHAPOHA) has partnered Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Organization
(ALCO) and the Ghana AIDS Commission to sensitise long distance drivers on
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

The sensitization exercise was accompanied
with HIV Testing Services for long distance drivers, their ‘mates’ and persons
living around the enclave of the Tema Harbour.

A statement from GHAPOHA and copied to the
Ghana News Agency said the HIV sensitization is part of GHAPOHA and ALCO’s
efforts in fast tracking the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS
(UNAIDS) Global 90-90-90 agenda in ending HIV and Acquired immunodeficiency
syndrome (AIDS) by 2020.

The statement said as part of GHAPOHA’s social
responsibility, it is committed to ensuring that 90 per cent of long distance
drivers and their mates would know their HIV status.

It said 90 percent of those who have received
their positive results would be enrolled and sustained in care and finally, 90
percent of those enrolled into care will achieve viral suppression.

The participants were educated on the
importance of knowing their HIV status as well as giving them confidence to
protect themselves and always insist on a condom anytime they have sexual
intercourse.

Participants were also educated on how to
report gender-based violence to the appropriate authorities, symptoms of
sexually transmitted infections and also adherence to treatment as a person
living with HIV.

GNA