The Ghana HIV/AIDS Network (GHANET) has an online request form for free HIV self-test kits. Its Self-Test Ghana portal also provides testing information and a directory of treatment centres. Here is how to request a kit and what to do with your result.
How to order your kit and what it costs
Visit selftestghana.online and select “Request HIVST Kit”. As checked on 5 October 2026, GHANET’s FAQs say a person can request one kit within a three-month period. The kit is free; the requester pays delivery, with the charge depending on location and arrangements.
The homepage advertises delivery across Ghana within 72 hours. This is the provider’s stated timeframe. Confirm your eligibility, final delivery charge and expected arrival with GHANET before ordering.
The form collects demographic and delivery information, which GHANET says is also used for reporting. Its public FAQs do not explain data-retention periods or who receives that information. Ask about data handling and delivery packaging before sharing your details.
When should you test?
HIV self-tests cannot reliably detect infection immediately after exposure. During this “window period”, antibodies may not yet be detectable. A negative result after a recent exposure cannot rule out HIV.
Follow the instructions supplied with your particular kit and ask a healthcare provider about earlier testing and when to repeat the test. Do not assume one retesting interval applies to every situation.
If you may have been exposed within the past 72 hours, seek care immediately for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). WHO advises starting PEP as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours and no later than 72 hours. Do not wait for kit delivery.
Taking the test and understanding your result
Read the leaflet supplied with your kit before starting. Follow its preparation, sample-collection and timing instructions, including when to read the result. Different products can have different instructions; follow the leaflet rather than a generic description of test lines.
Non-reactive: The test did not detect HIV antibodies. Recent infection may still be missed, so seek advice about further testing if you have had a recent exposure.
Reactive: This is a preliminary screening result. Visit a health facility for further testing by a trained provider to confirm your status.
Invalid: The test did not work. Use a new kit according to its instructions or get tested at a health facility.
Where to get support and treatment
GHANET’s ART Centre Locator lets you search by region and district. For help interpreting a result or finding care, its counselling page lists 026 022 1462.
The Ghana AIDS Commission says confidential HIV testing is free at public health facilities, accredited private facilities and community testing sites. ART is free at accredited treatment centres.
With effective treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives. People who achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV through sex. A healthcare professional monitors viral load to confirm this.