Minority Urges Government to Grant Tax Waivers and Expedite Clearance of Antiretroviral Drugs at Ports

In response to the alleged neglect of donated containers of HIV antiretroviral drugs at Ghana’s ports, the Minority in Parliament has called on the government to issue tax exemptions and ensure the immediate clearance of these vital medications and medical equipment. The Minority caucus expressed concern over the resulting shortages of antiretroviral drugs, which have adversely affected Persons Living with HIV in the country.

Highlighting the potential consequences of the delay, the Minority emphasized that individuals relying on the Abacavir Lamivudine regime were at an increased risk of developing drug resistance, rendering the treatment ineffective against the virus. Should this risk materialize, the government would require additional funding to address the escalating HIV challenge in Ghana.

Consequently, the Minority caucus issued three key demands. Firstly, they urged the Ministry of Finance to promptly issue the necessary tax exemption waivers, facilitating the immediate clearance of the antiretroviral drugs and other medical equipment and consumables. Secondly, they called for the implementation of an automated tax exemption waiver system specifically designed for medical consumables and equipment. This system would help curb unnecessary delays in clearing such critical items at the ports. Lastly, they insisted on instituting reforms within the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning to eliminate systemic failures that contribute to avoidable delays in performing its functions.

The Minority underscored the urgent nature of the situation, characterizing it as a national emergency that, if left unaddressed, could result in an increased prevalence rate of HIV in Ghana. Moreover, the scarcity of antiretroviral drugs could lead to higher morbidity and mortality rates among Persons Living with HIV, as well as escalate the overall cost of managing the HIV epidemic in the country.

Emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of the health and well-being of Ghanaians, the Minority urged the government to act swiftly and responsibly in resolving this crisis. They called for immediate attention to be given to granting the necessary tax waivers and expediting the clearance process for antiretroviral drugs and other medical supplies at the ports.

The Minority’s plea seeks to ensure the uninterrupted availability of antiretroviral drugs and medical equipment, safeguarding the health and lives of individuals living with HIV in Ghana.