By Nnedinma Okeke
The State HIV, AIDS and STI Control Programme (SASCP) together with its implementing Partner; the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), paid a courtesy call on Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA).
The courtesy call was held at the ASPHCDA office complex, Awka on May 7, 2026. It was to congratulate the Executive Secretary, ASPHCDA, Dr Obianuju Chinelo Okoye on her appointment as ASPHCDA Boss, and to identify with the Agency who is a Stakeholder in the HIV/AIDS control programme.
Dr Okoye during the visit, commended the team for their activities in the State, to include; their eventful outing on May 1, 2026 during the symbolic ceremony of the International Workers Day celebrations at the Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, where workers were privileged to receive HIV screening services at no cost.
She, also, extended the commendations to the Executive Director, Anambra State AIDS Control Agency, Dr Nkem Okeke for the initiative. She assured the team of continued collaboration, while encouraging them on dedication and hardwork as it would always lead to productivity.
The Team Lead and SASCP Programme Manager, Dr Tonia Mbagwu noted that ASPHCDA was a key Stakeholder in the HIV/AIDS programme as most of their comprehensive sites for testing and treatment of HIV were located in some Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) that spans across LGAs of the state.
The centres according to her includes; Okpoko 2 PHC in Ogubaru LGA, PHC Achallanzoakwa in Ihiala LGA, Maternal and Child (MCH) Centre Mbakwu, and PHC Ezeawulu both in Awka South LGA, PHC Umuanugo in Dunukofia LGA, PHC Nwafia in Njikoka LGA, PHC Mbaukwu in Awka North LGA, and PHC Amaokpala in Orumba North LGA.
“These PHCs are comprehensive treatment site for HIV in Anambra State. Our work with ASPHCDA and its PHCs are very crucial, and we also conduct pilot studies in healthcare facilities. We hope for better collaboration as we continue to work together towards better health for Ndi Anambra.
“The courtesy call is to register our presence, and bring to your knowledge our existence and activities in PHCs as regards to HIV/AIDS. Our implementing partner; AHF supports nine to 11 facilities across the State, but for SASCP, we oversee both PHCs, and General Hospitals, including Federal Institutions in the State,” she added.
In attendance during the visit includes; SASCP M&E Lead- Mr Obinna Iteke, PMTCT Focal Person-Mrs Kenechi Onuigdo, AHF Team Lead- Dr Vivian Sunday, ART Focal Person- Mrs Ogechukwu Mkpuluma, and AHF Team member- Mr Shawo Mathias.
Nnedinma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
