Galamsey Sparks HIV Explosion in Upper Denkyira West-Health Director Sounds Alarm

Galamsey Sparks HIV Explosion in Upper Denkyira West–Health Director Sounds Alarm

Illegal small-scale mining, widely known as galamsey, is not only wrecking the environment but also fueling a sharp rise in HIV cases in the Upper Denkyira West District.

Findings from the District Health Directorate, backed by investigative research, reveal that HIV infections in mining communities double once operations begin. In effect, residents in such areas become twice as likely to contract the virus compared to before the mines opened.

The research uncovered further risks:

70% increase in multiple sexual partners

30% rise in high-risk sexual encounters

70% jump in unprotected sex

20% lower HIV awareness compared to non-mining areas

District Health Director, Mr. Fidelis Kon-Angna, cautioned residents to protect themselves, stressing: “The galamsey menace is seriously fueling HIV transmission in the District and it is real.”