In a media briefing ahead of World AIDS Day, Dr Afam Obidike, the commissioner for health in Anambra, revealed alarming statistics indicating that 98,960 residents in the state are living with HIV/AIDS, making Anambra the 5th highest in HIV prevalence in Nigeria and the highest in the South East. Despite progress in reaching treatment targets, with 58% aware of their status and 44,808 on treatment, challenges persist.
The state is actively working towards the Global 95-95-95 targets but is currently at 65:81:93. Notably, new infections have seen a 46% decline between 2021 and 2023, and AIDS-related deaths have decreased by 32% during the same period. Dr Afam Anaeme stressed the importance of community involvement in HIV programs to combat stigma and discrimination, emphasizing that communities must lead the frontline of progress in the HIV response.
Residents are encouraged to utilize free testing centers, part of the state's efforts to increase testing coverage and accessibility. The executive director of ANSACA, Johnbosco Ementa, urged residents to know their status and acknowledged the support of implementing partners in expanding HIV treatment sites and testing initiatives. Urgent action is needed to address this health crisis and empower communities to lead the fight against HIV/AIDS in Anambra.
