Lady Nana Yaa Nsarko, the 2023 Miss Malaika Ghana and National HIV Youth Ambassador has called on Kayayes and rape survivors in Accra to seek immediate medical attention within 72 hours to prevent HIV infection.
Speaking during the ‘Live On Campaign’ as part of the National ART@20 celebrations organized by the National AIDS/STI Control Programme and sponsored by UNFPA and ABBOTT, Nsarko underscored the power of early intervention, empowering the audience to take control of their health.
She cautioned that delaying medical care could lead to severe health consequences, including HIV infection, instilling a sense of urgency and concern in the audience.
“If you sit at home in fear and don’t visit any hospital, that is when the virus will affect you,” Nsarko cautioned.
“Seeking immediate medical care after any accidental encounter such as rape or unprotected sex is essential to preventing HIV infection and other health complications. Do not let fear, stigma, or shame stop you from seeking help.”
The outreach event, which took place at the 31st December Women’s Market in Makola, Accra, included interactions with traders and head porters (locally known as Kayayes) about HIV and related issues.
The event featured speeches from Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, Programme Manager of the National AIDS Control Programme, and Dr. Esther Odame Asiedu, Accra Metro Director of Health Services.
Dr. Ayisi stressed the significance of early testing and prevention, noting that women are particularly vulnerable to HIV due to biological factors. He also highlighted the availability of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and upcoming injectables to prevent HIV infection.
Dr. Odame Asiedu introduced new self-test kits designed to simplify HIV testing procedures, reassuring the audience that testing is straightforward and encouraging them to take the step towards knowing their status.
Alhaji Karim Lameh Yirbito, representing the Greater Accra Market Queen, expressed gratitude for the event and highlighted the life-saving information provided.
During the event, Nsarko and her team from Health and Development Planners International, along with staff from UNFPA, ABBOTT, and Ghana Health Service, distributed over a hundred participants free HIV screenings, counselling, insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), and self-test kits.
