The Gendered Face Of HIV/AIDS: The Move Towards Policy Implementation in Ghana

Abstract

HIV/AIDS is more prevalent in Africa than in any other part of the world In Ghana, the first case of HIV/AIDS was report in 1986. Since then there have been efforts at various levels to combat its spread. This paper examines the institutional and structural frameworks for dealing with HIV/AIDS in Ghana. Using concept analysis, it examines the frameworks for their gender and development implications. It finds that the social group most adversely affected by HIV/AIDS in Ghana is women.  This is attributed to social, economic, cultural, and institutional obstacles. While efforts at fighting the disease by the Government of Ghana through the Ghana Aids Commission, donor partners and civil society are noteworthy, it is also clear that the frameworks applied do not adequately address the gendered nature of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Consequently, it is argued that any meaningful effort toward combating the epidemic will involve the empowerment of women through changes in government policies and the socio-cultural systems and practices that limit women’s options and choices. The role of women in developing national processes will be felt where women’s needs are taken into consideration and addressed as one of the key to their contribution to national development.