Accra, Sept. 04, GNA -The Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana (PPAG) has called on the Government, Civil Society Organizations (CSO), the media and stakeholders to recommit to ensuring inclusivity in pursuit of sexual health and well-being.
“We must collectively work towards a future where every person, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to lead a healthy, fulfilling life,” it said.
The PPAG in a press release issued in Accra on Wednesday to commemorate World Sexual Health Day, today, said it remained dedicated to its mission of providing comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services and advocating for the rights of all individuals.
“Together, let us continue to promote sexual health, well-being, and rights nationwide, ensuring that these fundamental aspects of life are accessible to all, particularly the most vulnerable in our society,” it said.
It said this year, World Sexual Health Day celebrated on the theme, “Positive Relationships,” underscored the importance of sexual well-being as a cornerstone for enhancing the quality of life.
The statement said the PPAGS focus remained on ensuring that every person in Ghana had unhindered access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) information and services, empowering them to make informed choices regarding their sexual and reproductive health.
It said despite the strides made in sexual and reproductive health, PPAG remained deeply concerned about the persistent gaps in awareness and access to sexual health services.
“Many individuals in Ghana still face barriers to accessing essential sexual health information, including knowledge about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), modern contraception, and safe sexual practices,” the statement said.
It said stigma and discrimination against those seeking sexual health care continued to be a significant obstacle to the realisation of sexual health for all.
The statement said sexual health is healthcare, and as such, it must be prioritized in national health strategies.
It called for enhanced efforts to improve access to essential sexual and reproductive health resources across Ghana.
“We believe that by doing so, we contribute not only to the well-being of individuals but also to the broader goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), to which Ghana is committed,” it said.
The PPAG called for a positive and respectful approach to sexual health, one that was free from coercion, discrimination, and violence.
It said to attain and maintain sexual health, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected, and upheld, adding that this was essential not only for individual well-being but also for the overall quality of life in all communities.
GNA