'Hiding HIV/STI status from partner is punishable by law' - Gender Director

She urged students to avoid sexual violence and other harmful behaviours The Director for Gender in the Volta Region, Madam Thywil Eyra Kpe, has cautioned young people that knowingly engaging in sexual activity with another person without disclosing an existing HIV or sexually transmitted infection (STI) status can constitute sexual abuse and attract legal punishment.

Madam Kpe gave the warning during a Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights session at the Young and Safe Bootcamp organised at Ho Technical Institute by Node Eight, LoveAid and the Ghana Education Service.

Beyond sexual health education, the Gender Director also educated students on Ghana’s abortion laws, explaining that while abortion is generally restricted, it is permissible under specific circumstances provided by law.