The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), the Global Network of Young People Living with HIV (Y+ Global), and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) have raised concerns about the high levels of stigmatization faced by women and children living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).
She stated, “There is ongoing collaboration with agencies to raise awareness in communities.” The call was made yesterday in Abuja during an awareness campaign aimed at prioritizing the well-being of children living with HIV.
Y+ Global also emphasized the need for urgent prioritization of healthcare and resources for children and pregnant women living with the virus, particularly in rural areas.
Faith Onuh, the consortium adviser to Y+ Global, expressed concern about the high number of children living with HIV during the awareness campaign.
She called for efforts to close the gap in healthcare access and ensure equitable treatment for these children.
She also stressed the importance of prioritizing healthcare for children with HIV, and promoting safe pregnancy and childbirth to improve child survival rates.
Gabriel Undelikwo, the community support adviser to UNAIDS, echoed the call by highlighting the need for public awareness of the Anti-Discrimination Act, which makes it unlawful to discriminate against individuals based on their HIV status.
He added that the Act also prevents employers, individuals, or organizations from mandating an HIV test as a requirement for employment or access to services.
