Samuel Yao Atidzah, Executive Director of GOSANET Foundation, has called on Ghanaians to conduct a test and know their HIV status, stressing that “HIV does not define a person, but dignity, respect, and love do.”
He cautioned against the discrimination of patients based on their HIV status.
Mr. Atidzah made the call in a release copied to the Ghana News Agency in Ho to mark Zero Discrimination Day.
The observance, initiated by UNAIDS in 2014, is commemorated annually on March 1 by the UN and other organisations to promote equality, inclusion, and peace for all, regardless of age, gender, race, or sexual orientation.
This year’s celebration is on the theme, “People first: Standing united for dignity, equality and inclusion.” The Day also underscores the need to end discriminatory laws and actions, particularly those that fuel stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.
Mr Atidzah urged the public to stand together to end stigma and discrimination, while promoting inclusion and supporting People Living with AIDS within their communities. He emphasised that collective action remains critical in safeguarding the rights and well-being of affected persons.
He further encouraged individuals to take advantage of HIV Self-testing kits to know their status, describing the process as “private, confidential, safe and empowering.” According to him, taking charge of one’s health is a sign of strength, not shame.
“I urge all and sundry to get tested, know your status, protect yourself and protect others,” he stated.
