By Obianuju Isima
The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment efforts, while intensifying actions against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV).
Following its participation in the Global Fund Grant Cycle 8 (GC8) National Consultative Workshop held at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja on June 11, the Executive Director, Anambra State AIDS Control Agency, Dr Nkem Okeke said that Gender-Based Violence and Intimate Partner Violence remain significant drivers of HIV vulnerability and poor health outcomes, tackling these challenges is critical to achieving the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
According to him, addressing GBV and IPV is essential to reducing HIV vulnerability and improving health outcomes, particularly among women and other at-risk populations.
Dr. Okeke noted that the anticipated GC8 investments would complement the implementation of ANSACA’s State Strategic Transformation and Sustainability Plan (SSTSP) 2026–2028, designed to achieve zero new HIV infections, eliminate AIDS-related stigma and discrimination, and reduce AIDS-related deaths across the state.
He added that the plan also seeks to strengthen health systems, expand access to quality healthcare services and improve the overall wellbeing and productivity of residents.
He said that with the opportunities presented by the Global Fund Grant Cycle 8, Anambra is positioning itself to deepen its HIV response, strengthen mechanisms for preventing and responding to GBV and IPV, improve access to healthcare services and advance its vision of a healthier and more prosperous society
He noted that Anambra State advocated stronger integration of HIV services, psychosocial support, legal protection, community-based prevention programmes and economic empowerment initiatives for vulnerable groups.
Dr. Okeke said that Anambra made significant contributions to discussions on survivor-centred care, integrated community HIV response strategies, accountability frameworks, referral systems, social protection initiatives and sustainable financing for HIV and GBV interventions.
The ANSACA boss expressed appreciation to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his continued support for public health programmes, social protection initiatives, women’s empowerment and human capital development in the state
The high-level workshop, brought together representatives of government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations, United Nations agencies, human rights advocates and public health experts to develop strategic priorities for Nigeria’s Global Fund GC8 funding request.
The Attorney General/ Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Tobe Nweke, SAN, Director of Public Petitions and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr. Chinwe Achugbu were also at the workshop.
Obianuju Isima is the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
