Sam George Criticises AIDS Commission Over Lubricant Distribution To Gays
Minister questions public health priorities during debate on anti-LGBTQ+ bill
The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has criticised the Ghana AIDS Commission over what he claims is the distribution of lubricants to men who have sex with men.
Speaking during deliberations on the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, Mr George, a lead sponsor of the legislation, argued that such interventions raise concerns about the Commission’s priorities.
He questioned the rationale behind the initiative, suggesting it contradicts the Commission’s mandate to combat HIV.
“We have evidence of Ghana AIDS Commission officers meeting with pro-LGBTQ groups and giving them lubricants. If the Ghana AIDS Commission is supposed to fight HIV, why are you giving lubricants to men to have anal sex with men?” he said.
Mr George dismissed explanations that the distribution is aimed at reducing HIV transmission among high-risk groups, insisting it instead promotes the behaviour.
He further argued that limited public health resources should be redirected to what he described as more urgent needs, particularly maternal healthcare.
“If they really want to fund public health, they should provide maternal beds for women who do not have access during delivery,” he added.
The comments come amid ongoing national debate over the proposed anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, which continues to generate strong reactions from different sections of society.
