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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.”
