Anambra wants battle against HIV to begin at home

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By Madu Obi

The Anambra State government has called for renewed efforts to make HIV a strategic family conversation, stressing that the battle against the scourge should begin at home.

The Executive Director and Project Manager of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), Dr. Nkem Okeke, said in an interview that everyone has a role to play in achieving holistic epidemic control of the disease in the country.

According to Okeke, HIV prevention, testing, treatment, as well as the fight against stigma, should not be the sole responsibility of government and healthcare professionals, and urged families and communities to engage in open and regular discussions about the disease.

"Encouraging honest conversations about HIV within families would promote early testing, improve access to treatment, reduce stigma and discrimination, while inspiring healthier lifestyle choices among young people and adults.

"The fight requires the collective efforts of parents, guardians, community and religious leaders, schools, the media and other stakeholders to raise awareness and strengthen preventive measures", he noted.

He reaffirmed ANSACA's commitment to expanding public awareness campaigns and deepening partnerships aimed at reducing new HIV infections, while ensuring that people living with HIV enjoy continued access to quality care, treatment and support.

He also urged residents of Anambra State to know their HIV status through regular testing and support ongoing efforts to eliminate the epidemic in the state and across the country.