The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has dismissed claims that the government is planning to sell the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme on Thursday, 20th February, he clarified that the government is only seeking a partnership to improve revenue collection within the company.

“We have not said we are selling ECG. Let no one misquote me. We are only seeking partnership in the distribution end vis-à-vis billing, collection activities of their work,” he stated.

According to him, the move is aimed at addressing inefficiencies in ECG’s operations, particularly in revenue mobilisation.

Mr Jinapor highlighted the challenges associated with ECG’s current billing and collection system, citing a personal example to illustrate the problem.

“I’m telling you the truth that in my house, for three months they have not even collected the bills, and that is one of the issues we are trying to resolve,” he revealed.

This, he said, demonstrates the urgent need for reforms to ensure that ECG becomes more efficient and financially sustainable.

The Minister assured Ghanaians that the government remains committed to strengthening ECG rather than privatising it.

He urged the public to disregard misinformation and support efforts to enhance the company’s performance, particularly in revenue collection, to improve service delivery across the country.

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In the heart of Ghana’s cocoa industry, a transformative initiative is redefining business success.

Sustain a Bean™, co-founded by visionary leaders Vanya Daryanani and Jason Nana Yaw Mohan, is proving that sustainability, ethical trade, and community empowerment can drive economic growth.

Recently featured in The CEO Magazine and honoured by the British Council Study UK Alumni Awards, Sustain a Bean™ aligns its mission with global development efforts.

“Our vision is to create lasting impact, echoing the values of the UN SDGs by promoting sustainability, quality education, and community well-being,” says Vanya Daryanani.

How to Sustain a Bean™ Supports Global Goals

SDG 1 – No Poverty: Empowering over 600 cocoa farmers with fair wages, aligning with UNDP’s efforts to eradicate poverty.

SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation: Implementing clean water systems in rural Ghana, in line with UNICEF’s WASH program for universal access to safe water.

SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production: Promoting sustainable farming, resonating with UNESCO’s focus on environmental preservation.

ESG Excellence: Attracting Ethical Investors Worldwide

As global investors pivot towards ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance, Sustain a Bean™ stands as a model of transparency and impact. Its alignment with the United Nations Global Compact makes it a sought-after investment opportunity.

Community Impact That Reflects Global Missions

Sustain a Bean™’s impact includes:

✔️ Fair wages for 600+ cocoa farmers, echoing World Vision’s poverty alleviation goals.

✔️ Clean water facilities for rural communities, supporting UNICEF’s WASH agenda.

✔️ Scholarships for young girls, aligned with UNESCO’s vision for inclusive education.

“Each project we undertake is a step towards the UN’s vision of a sustainable world,” Daryanani emphasises.

A Future Rooted in Sustainable Innovation

Looking forward, Sustain a Bean™ aims to:

Expand its farmer network to 1,500 by 2026.

Launch its own line of ethically sourced chocolates, adhering to Fairtrade International guidelines.

Develop a Sustainability Training Hub for young entrepreneurs, in line with World Vision’s youth empowerment programs.

Mohan shares, “We see Ghana as a global leader in sustainable business, working alongside international organizations to create lasting change.”

Partner with Sustain a Bean™ and Support Global Sustainability Goals.

Join Sustain a Bean™ in building a sustainable future, aligned with the UN SDGs, UNESCO, UNICEF, and World Vision.

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The vibrant fusion of Ghanaian and French musical artistry will take centre stage at the closing event of the Soundscape and Ghana x France Songwriting Camp on February 21, 2025.

Hosted at Impact Hub Accra at 6 PM, this exclusive listening event will showcase the compositions crafted by twelve exceptionally talented songwriters from Ghana and France.

From February 17 to 21, these gifted artistes have come together in a unique cross-cultural collaboration, weaving together diverse influences to create original music. This celebration of storytelling and artistic exchange highlights the power of international partnerships in the music industry and underscores the depth of creative synergy between Ghana and France.

The evening will also mark the culmination of Soundscape, a pioneering initiative dedicated to music publishing. Over the course of the programme, 22 Ghanaian cultural entrepreneurs have engaged in an in-depth journey to protect Ghana’s musical heritage while nurturing the national music industry’s future.

Through a combination of in-person sessions in Accra and online workshops with international and Ghanaian experts, participants gained critical insights into copyright management, synchronization, and music business strategy.

The program also provided one-on-one mentoring, fostering direct connections between Ghanaian and French professionals. As a testament to their dedication, these participants will receive their official diplomas from Impact Hub Accra and Centre national de la musique (CNM) during the event.

Both Soundscape and the Ghana x France Songwriting Camp are integral components of the Support to the Expansion of Ghana Music Industry (SEGMI) project, an initiativeimplemented by Expertise France in partnership with Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Creative Arts Agency and funded by the French development Agency (AFD) and the French Treasury.

This collaborative effort aims to strengthen Ghana’s music copyright environment and foster French-Ghanaian partnerships while elevating the country’s global music presence.

This culminating event promises an evening of inspired music, celebration, and recognition of the growing impact of international artistic collaboration.

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Rabat, Feb 20 (MAP/GNA) – Morocco has made the African continent the cornerstone of its foreign policy, the country’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, said on Thursday in Rabat.

Speaking on the opening of the 2nd Forum of Chairpersons of Foreign Affairs Committees of African Parliaments, themed “Towards Establishing Lasting Foundations for Stability and Security in Africa,” Bourita stressed that Morocco is deeply convinced of a comprehensive vision based on promoting peace, security and development, respecting the territorial integrity of countries and the principles of good neighborliness, the non-interference in their internal affairs and calling against sheltering terrorist and separatist groups which threaten Africa’s stability.

He added that the Kingdom, under the enlightened leadership of His Majesty the King, has always expressed its firm belief in the correlation between the elements of the security, peace and development nexus, and that the purely security approach, while necessary, is insufficient on its own to meet the continent’s complex challenges, hence the need for a global vision integrating the social and economic dimensions to guarantee lasting peace and prosperity.

Morocco’s firm conviction illustrates the “African optimism” that characterizes the Kingdom’s overall commitment to Africa, he added, emphasizing that HM King Mohammed VI believes deeply in Africa.

In this respect, Bourita stressed that Morocco, which trusts in Africa’s potential, sees opportunities “where others see only problems,” adding that the Kingdom favors sustainable solutions, even if they are difficult and time-consuming to implement. “Morocco’s commitment to Africa is a commitment to the well-being of the continent, not just empty slogans,” Bourita maintained.

“In His speeches, His Majesty the King constantly insists on boldness, initiative and a high sense of responsibility,” the Minister said, adding that meeting internal and external challenges depends “on our ability to combine initiative and flexibility.”

In this respect, he cited several examples of initiatives launched by the Kingdom with regard to Africa, explaining that to meet the challenge of development aid, His Majesty the King decided in 2000 to cancel the debt of the least developed African countries and completely eliminate customs duties on their products.

Bourita also mentioned the African Action Summit held in 2016, on the Sovereign’s initiative, and the creation of three commissions dedicated to the climate, as well as the “AAA” Initiative aimed at tackling the challenge of food security, which has now become a benchmark in the field.

To meet the challenge of global development, the Minister highlighted the importance of the Atlantic Initiative aimed at facilitating access to the Atlantic Ocean for Sahel countries, as well as the Royal Initiative to meet the challenge of energy security, through the launch by His Majesty the King and the President of Nigeria of the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project.

He highlighted one of the main foundations of Morocco’s African policy, placing the human being at the heart of African action, stressing that the Royal visits made by His Majesty the King to various countries on the continent were an opportunity to get closer to the populations, leaders and political, economic, intellectual and cultural elites, as well as to the concrete reality of these countries, the aspirations of their youth and the expectations of their various stakeholders.

Bourita stressed the vital importance Morocco attaches to the humanitarian dimension in its cooperation with brotherly African countries, assuring that this cooperation constantly gives priority to the implementation of tangible projects beneficial to populations, notably in the sectors of education, health, development and housing.

He added that the Kingdom’s African commitment illustrates its strong sense of belonging to the continent, in that Morocco’s African policy is not a simple neighborliness policy. “Africa is not only a neighborhood to the Kingdom, but a land of identity and geographic and historical belonging,” he said.

“By placing Africa at the heart of its foreign policy vision, Morocco is thus in its natural position,” Bourita said, adding that everything that concerns Africa directly affects Morocco. “Our stability is directly linked to that of our continent, and our development depends on that of Africa,” he underscored.

Bourita also underlined the major importance of this Forum, insofar as it is a “concrete illustration of the awareness we Africans have reached of the imperative need to combine efforts and work side by side to build a prosperous future for the present and future generations of our continent.”

The importance of this event, he pointed out, also stems from the major changes that the world is currently undergoing, characterized by the tangle and complexity of interests and the multitude of players on the international scene, noting that “traditional diplomacy” is no longer capable, on its own, of guaranteeing the achievement of the desired objectives. He felt it necessary to reflect on new mechanisms capable of accompanying accelerated developments.

It is in this context that the role of parliaments on the stage of international events comes into play, he maintained, adding that legislative institutions, in addition to their traditional functions of exercising control over government action, are more than ever called upon to assume new missions as a force for proposals and a laboratory of ideas and initiatives capable of making constructive contributions.

He concluded that the 2nd Forum of Chairpersons of Foreign Affairs Committees of African Parliaments is a source of optimist, highlighting that following the Forum’s first edition, held in 2023 in Rabat, the 2025 edition will consolidate the process of institutionalizing this major event, so as to ensure its sustainability and establish it as an official framework for the collective effort to enshrine a clear and ambitious African identity in terms of objectives, and to consolidate the continent’s strategic choices.

GNA/MAP

By Yussif Ibrhim

Kumasi, Feb. 20, GNA – Dr Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, has met market queens at the Kejetia Market to discuss steps to address teething challenges confronting traders in the market.

The meeting which was held at the conference hall of the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) provided a platform for the women to lay bare their concerns as occupants of the facility.

Among issues raised by the women were sanitation challenges, electricity, congestion, and fair allocation of stalls.

They expected the Regional Minister to address the challenges to ensure orderliness in the market, which plays a critical role in the local economy of Kumasi.

According to them, most of the issues raised had been long-standing and impacted negatively on their businesses, stressing the significance of the Minister’s intervention to their livelihoods.

Dr Amoakohene assured the market queens of the government’s commitment to making the Kejetia Market user-friendly by addressing the numerous challenges hindering business activities in the market.

He said Kumasi was known as a hub of business and the Kejetia Market remained critical in the scheme of things.

To ensure swift action towards addressing the problems, the Regional Minister later engaged the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly and management of the market and tasked them to find lasting solutions to the issues as soon as possible.

They should work closely with the women, and relevant institutions that have a role to play in resolving the problems to improve service delivery in the market.

GNA

The Minister for Energy, John Abdulai Jinapor, has attributed the country’s current energy challenges to the weak state of the sector inherited by the government.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme on Thursday, 20th February, he assured Ghanaians that the government is working tirelessly to resolve the issues.

According to Mr Jinapor, the erratic power supply being experienced in various parts of the country is a result of deep-rooted structural problems within the energy sector.

He urged the public to remain patient while the government implements long-term solutions to stabilise the situation.

“We inherited a very weak energy sector. Ghanaians should bear with us as we work to fix the problems permanently.”

“The current erratic supply situation should be stable in two weeks’ time,” he stated.

His comments were aimed at addressing growing concerns over frequent power outages.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a reliable and efficient energy supply across the country.

He expressed confidence that the measures being put in place would not only restore stability but also prevent future disruptions.

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In an era when political accountability often seems more like a catchphrase than a genuine commitment, the recent statements by the NPP’s Director of Communications, Richard Ahiagbah, provide a much-needed dose of clarity and integrity. His declaration on Joy News’ PM Express—that former President Nana Akufo-Addo has instructed his ex-appointees to remain available for any accountability processes after his administration—resonates as both a principled stand and a call for genuine transparency.

A Bold Stand in Uncertain Times

As our nation stands on the cusp of a political transition, the need for clear accountability has never been more pressing. Too often, we witness officials disappearing from the public eye when controversies arise, leaving the citizenry with unanswered questions and a lingering sense of mistrust. In contrast, Mr. Ahiagbah’s emphatic remark, “We [the NPP] have no record of running away; we’ll be here,” is not just a statement of intent—it is a pledge. It reassures the public that, regardless of shifting political tides, the commitment to transparency will remain unwavering.

Accountability as a Cornerstone of Democratic Governance

At its core, accountability is essential to the health of any democracy. It is the mechanism through which power is balanced, and public trust is maintained. When leaders openly accept the scrutiny that accompanies their service, they reinforce the notion that no one is above the law. This approach stands in stark contrast to practices seen elsewhere, where a lack of accountability can erode the very foundations of public confidence. The NPP’s recent stance is a powerful reminder that genuine leadership is measured not only by the policies enacted during a term but also by the readiness to address past actions with transparency and responsibility.

Setting a Benchmark Against Evasion

Recent controversies have cast a shadow over political figures who have been quick to evade accountability. Consider, for instance, the case of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, who was recently declared a fugitive by the Office of the Special Prosecutor. In the midst of such developments, Mr. Ahiagbah’s clear and assertive comments shine brightly. By emphasizing that accountability is not a matter of convenience but an ongoing duty, the NPP sets a high standard for political conduct. It is a standard that, in our view, should serve as a benchmark for all political parties and public figures.

Accountability Beyond Political Expediency

What makes this commitment particularly laudable is its long-term perspective. Accountability should not be seen as a temporary measure linked solely to the tenure of a political leader. Rather, it is an enduring principle that must persist even after an administration has concluded. The notion that accountability ends with an election is not only short-sighted—it undermines the very principles of responsible governance. In insisting that former appointees remain available for accountability processes, the NPP is affirming that political service comes with lifelong responsibility.

Reflections on Past Missteps

The accountability imperative takes on an even sharper focus when contrasted with the actions of political rivals. Mr. Ahiagbah’s pointed reference to instances where members of the opposition, including those who have fled or faced trial in absentia, serves as a sobering reminder. It underscores that accountability is not a selective practice to be applied only when convenient. The NPP’s track record of standing by its officials—ensuring that they face questions and address concerns openly—is both commendable and necessary. Such an approach not only builds trust among supporters but also elevates the overall standard of political discourse in our country.

Why This Matters for the Future

Transparency and accountability are the bedrock of progress. When citizens see that their leaders are willing to stand by their actions and address any concerns head-on, it fosters a culture of trust and engagement. This, in turn, encourages a more informed electorate and a political environment where policies and actions are scrutinized for the common good. The NPP’s commitment sends a clear message: true leadership involves accepting responsibility, regardless of the challenges that may follow in the wake of governance.

Moreover, as calls for accountability grow louder from all quarters, such a steadfast stance from a major political party is both timely and necessary. It challenges the cynicism that often surrounds political transitions and promises that accountability will not be a casualty of political change. Instead, it offers a pathway to rebuilding public trust, ensuring that governance remains grounded in integrity and a deep respect for the democratic process.

In a political landscape that is too often marred by evasiveness and half-measures, the NPP’s clear commitment to accountability stands as a beacon of hope. By insisting that former appointees remain accessible for any necessary scrutiny, the party is not only defending its own legacy but also reinforcing the very principles upon which our democracy is built. It is a stance that we wholeheartedly agree with—one that should inspire all political actors to embrace accountability as an ongoing, non-negotiable commitment to the people they serve.

Ultimately, this approach is a testament to the enduring power of transparency in fostering a vibrant, trustworthy, and resilient democratic society.

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has disclosed that 44 of the country’s forest reserves are under severe threat from heavily armed illegal small-scale miners, commonly known as galamsey operators.

He explained that forest guards and the Forestry Commissions rapid response team are unable to confront these miners effectively because they lack the advanced weaponry the galamsey operators possess.

Addressing Parliament on Thursday, February 20, the minister highlighted the growing crisis, stating, “Ghana’s forests are facing serious threats of deforestation and degradation due to well-known factors.

“The country is experiencing an unprecedented assault on its forest resources and water bodies, largely driven by illegal mining activities.”

He warned that the situation has escalated into a national emergency with severe security and public health implications, requiring urgent intervention.

“Mr Speaker, it will interest you to know that out of the 288 forest reserves, a whopping 44 of these forest reserves are under serious attack by illegal miners.

“They are heavily armed with sophisticated weapons and very violent with a large number of excavators making it extremely difficult for a forest guard and rapid response to control them since they have no such sophisticated weapons to control them,” he stated.

The minister further revealed that in more than nine of these affected reserves, illegal miners have completely taken over, preventing Forestry Commission officials from accessing the areas.

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By Iddi Yire

Accra, Feb/ 20, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday in conformity with Article 76 (1) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, constituted his 19-Member cabinet. 

The 1992 Constitution enjoins the President to have a Cabinet of no fewer than 10 and not more than 19 ministers. 

Article 76 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana defines the Cabinet as a group of people that includes the President, Vice-President, and not more than 19 Ministers of State. 

The list of Cabinet Members was announced after their first meeting with the President at the seat of Government in Accra, by Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Presidential Spokesman and Minister of State in-charge of Government Communications. 

They include Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, Finance Minister, Alhaji Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, Minister for the Interior, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Defence Minister, and Dr Dominic Akurutinga Ayine, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, and Mr kwabena Minta Akandoh, Minister of Health. 

Others are Mr John Abu Jinapor, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Mr Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister of Education, Madam Elizabeth Ofosu Agyare, Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Eric Opoku, Minister of Food and Agriculture, and Mr Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations. 

The rest are Mr Governs Kwame Agbodza, the Minister for Roads, and Highways, Mr  

Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology,  

Mr Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources, Mr Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Mr Joseph Bukari Nikpe, Minister of Transport and Dr Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, Minister of Labour, Jobs, and Employment. 

Mr Ofosu said these were the 19 ministers who formed Cabinet together with the President and the Vice President. 

He said apart from these 19 ministers; other ministers were made to attend the Cabinet meeting. 

The Ministers who were in attendance at Thursday’s Cabinet meeting include Mr Iddie Kofi Adams, Minister of Sports and Recreation, Mr George Opare Addo, Minister of Youth Development and Empowerment, Madam Emelia Arthur, the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture and Madam Dzifa Abla Gomashie. 

Others are Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Mr Emmanuel Kwadwo Agyekum, Minister of State in-charge of Special Initiatives, Mr Baba Issifu Seidu, the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Madam Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, Minister of State Public Sector Reforms and Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister for State Responsible for Government Communications,  

Mr Ofosu said the maiden cabinet meeting objective was primarily to introduce cabinet and ensure that people had a handle on what exactly the expectation was of them in cabinet. 

He said the ground rules were set out and important briefings on matters relating to governance took place.  

He said there were a number of briefings; such as the state of security in the country and the  

He said the Minister for the Interior and the Minister of Defence and Mr Prosper Douglas Bani, the National Security Coordinator took turns to brief cabinet on the security situation in the country; adding that the general view emanating from the briefing was that Ghana’s security was strong. 

“We are a safe country and people are free to go about their normal activities without fear…” 

He said Mr Goosie Tanoh, the Presidential Advisor on the 24-hour Economy and Accelerated Export Developments, briefed cabinet on preparations so far towards a full rollout of the 24-hour Economy. 

Mr Ofosu said they were left with the impression that tremendous work had gone into what was arguably President Mahama’s foremost transformation plan, which aims to convert the Ghanaian economy from its present state into one that never sleeps and works around the clock.  

GNA 

Strengthening Monitoring and Enforcement

The Devastating Impact of Illegal Mining

Water Pollution and Public Health Concerns

Health Risks and Environmental Damage

The Way Forward

The Member of Parliament for Tano North, Dr Gideon Boako says tax reforms implemented during the Akufo-Addo administration were remarkable, and that they constitute the most by any Ghanaian administration.

Recalling the pivotal moment on March 3, 2017, when former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s first budget abolished 17 taxes, Dr Boako said the decision significantly eased the financial pressures on citizens and businesses alike.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen show, Dr Boako noted that the tax cuts during the Akufo-Addo administration are unparalleled in Ghana’s history, with the removal of upwards of 25 taxes over an eight-year period.

This, he stressed, was a clear indication of the government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for economic growth and development.

“The previous government abolished the most taxes in this country. If you could remember, on March 3, 2017, former President Akufo-Addo’s first budget abolished 17 different taxes in Ghana,” Dr. Boako remarked.

According to Dr Boako, while the government’s tax policies under Akufo-Addo were instrumental in promoting business expansion and stimulating economic activities, there has been a critical balance that needed to be maintained.

Addressing the controversial Electronic Levy (E-Levy), which faced backlash from the public, Dr Boako reaffirmed what he said was his and the former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s stance from 2020.

He reiterated that the E-Levy was not too popular and that other avenues could have been explored to meet the government’s revenue needs.

“The E-levy was unpopular, and my stance on its implementation remains the same, just as that of Dr Bawumia right from the year 2020. For me, it was needless,” he stated, also referencing other unpopular tax initiatives like the betting tax.

Despite the challenges of navigating complex fiscal policies, Dr Boako emphasised that the Akufo-Addo administration’s tax cuts demonstrated a forward-thinking approach, laying the foundation for Ghana’s long-term economic stability.

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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister of Foreign Affairs

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has unveiled plans to introduce a 24-hour passport service as part of an ambitious overhaul of Ghana’s passport system, which is currently struggling with a backlog of applications.

During a tour of the passport head and regional office in Accra, Ablakwa announced the new initiative.

“You’ve also heard about our major reform. We want the passport administration in our country to operate 24 hours a day. This year, you need to be prepared as we will be running three shifts. We aim to reduce the waiting time for passport applications,” he stated.

The Minister outlined five key action plans designed to revamp the passport office and streamline the application process.

He emphasized that specific measures would be put in place to meet clear targets promptly.

In addition to the service extension, Ablakwa hinted at a possible reduction in the passport application fee.

Currently, a standard 32-page passport costs GH₵500.00, and any adjustments will be made to ensure that fees are equitable, with contributions from wealthier citizens helping to subsidize the costs for those in need.

The announcement reflects Ablakwa’s commitment not only to improving efficiency in passport processing but also to enhancing the welfare of the service staff.

Watch the latest episode of Health Focus below

play videoStella Dziedzorm Sogli hosts the President of GHANET on Health Focus on GhanaWeb TV

The President of the Ghana HIV/AIDS Network, Ernest Amoabeng Ortsin, has reiterated the importance of strictly adhering to HIV treatment.

According to him, following the prescribed treatment has numerous benefits, including reducing the viral load and minimizing the risk of transmission.

He emphasized that treatment protects both the patient and their partners, as well as the people they interact with.

Speaking to Stella Dziedzorm Sogli on the Health Focus show, he noted, “As part of our campaign, we have something we call U=U, which means undetectable equals untransmissible. What this means is that when someone starts treatment, stays on treatment, and takes their medication consistently without mixing it with other substances within a period of six months to a maximum of one year, they will achieve viral suppression.”

Ortsin further explained, “This means that at a certain point, the amount of virus in the person’s body becomes extremely low, and even the few remaining viruses are inactive. At that stage, the person cannot pass the virus to another person.”

“HIV treatment is recognized as a key public health strategy for preventing transmission,” he stressed.

He also added that the surest way to detect the virus is through testing. However, HIV can be transmitted through breast milk, semen, vaginal fluid, and blood.

Watch the full interview below

SSD/MA