The Network of Persons Living with HIV in Ghana (NAP+ Ghana) has called on the government to immediately clear donor-funded antiretroviral medicines (ARVs) reportedly awaiting clearance at the port.
In a statement, NAP+ Ghana said it was concerned about shortages of ARVs, particularly Dolutegravir-based regimens, at some health facilities across the country.
It said some facilities were rationing medicines and asking clients to return weekly or every two weeks for smaller quantities.
NAP+ Ghana said significant quantities of HIV medicines had arrived in Ghana but were still at the port, warning that delays could undermine uninterrupted HIV treatment.
“This situation is unacceptable and poses a serious threat to the continuity, effectiveness and sustainability of HIV treatment in Ghana,” the organisation stated.
The group also raised concerns over a reported loss of more than US$1 million worth of HIV medicines earlier this year after the medicines allegedly expired while awaiting clearance at the port.
NAP+ Ghana is demanding the immediate clearance and distribution of the medicines, restoration of stocks at facilities experiencing shortages and a clear system to track HIV commodities from procurement to final distribution.
It has also given the government 48 hours to provide stakeholders with an update on the status of the medicines and the clearance process.
