By Emmanuel Nyatsikor
Ho, Feb. 14, GNA – Mr Samuel Yao Atidzah, the Executive Director of GOSANET Foundation on Saturday stated that Valentine’s Day should serve not only as a celebration of affection but also a platform for health education and reflection.
He therefore called for positive HIV prevention and health-seeking behaviours among the youth, young people, and religious communities.
Mr Atidzah stated this at an outreach programme organised by GOSANET Foundation in collaboration with Ghana Health Service, Ghana HIV and AIDS Network (GHANET) in Ho to mark Valentine and Chocolate Day 2026.
It was also part of an ongoing HIV response and community engagement activities targeting adolescents, young adults, and faith-based groups to reinforce the message that love should be guided by responsibility, respect and protection.
Mr Atidzah reminded the youth that love should be guided by responsibility, respect, and protection.
“True Love is responsible so as we celebrate Valentine and Chocolate Day, we encourage young people to protect themselves, know their HIV status, avoid risky behaviours and cultivate values that uphold dignity and healthy relationships,” he stressed.
The Executive Director called for HIV prevention strategies including abstinence, faithfulness, correct and consistent use of condoms, HIV self-testing and early treatment.
He underscored the importance of multi-sectoral partnership in sustaining Ghana National HIV response and ensuring that young people have access to youth-friendly and confidential services.
Mr Atidzah reaffirmed GOSANET Foundation’s commitment to working closely with government agencies, civil society partners and religious communities to empower young people with accurate information and supportive services to make informed and responsible decisions.
He advocated for increased access to HIV testing services, strengthened comprehensive sexuality and life-skills education open dialogue between parents and young people and elimination of stigma and discrimination.
Participants commended the initiative and pledged their continued collaboration in promoting moral responsibility, youth mentorship and community-based health education.
They emphasized that faith institutions played a vital role in guiding young people towards responsible life choices.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/ Christabel Addo