The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has urged the youth to use condoms to protect themselves ahead of the Valentine’s Day celebration.
According to him, the use of condoms is essential during this period to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections.
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The day, which is widely known and celebrated annually on February 14, is a day for expressing love and affection through cards, flowers, chocolates, and gifts.
During this time, young people are exposed to excessive fun while others are ignorantly exploited.
Speaking to Citi TV, Mr. Kpakpo Allotey reiterated how the youth should be cautious, adding that a minute mistake can land one badly.
“What I want to tell the youth is that you can’t stop them from hanging out with loved ones. But what they have to know is that, if it’s not on, it’s not in. They have to know that one minute or two seconds of pleasure can end you badly, so if it’s not on, it’s not in,” he said.
In recent times, the Ghana Health Service and the AIDS Commission have consistently spoken about the high number of HIV cases among the youth.
Both organizations have created awareness and organized workshops and conferences to educate young people on the dangers of having unprotected sex.
As of late 2025 and moving into 2026, there are approximately 334,700 to 335,000 people living with HIV/AIDS in Ghana, based on the 2024/2025 National HIV Estimates and Projections by the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC).
