By Stanley Nwako
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has commended the Anambra State Government for its continued support for HIV/AIDS prevention, testing and treatment services across the state.
The Country Programme Director of AHF, Dr Eche Ijezie, gave the commendation during an advocacy visit to the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, to appreciate the government’s support and strengthen collaboration in healthcare delivery.
Dr Ijezie said AHF’s operations in Anambra had grown from zero to serving thousands of clients, attributing the progress to the cooperation of the state government, (SASCP), the State HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and STIs Control Programme, and other health partners.
He noted that the collaboration had enabled the organisation to expand its service locations, including General Hospital (GH) Anaku in Ayamelum, GH Okpoko and GH Ossomala, thereby extending services to more communities across the state.
The AHF director reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to identifying people who are unaware of their HIV status, encouraging testing and ensuring that those who test positive are promptly linked to treatment.
He acknowledged that, despite the progress recorded, more work was needed to reach underserved communities and ensure that everyone requiring HIV testing and treatment could access appropriate services.
Dr Ijezie added that AHF was willing to support healthcare facilities beyond service delivery through minor renovations and other infrastructural interventions where necessary. He also highlighted plans for an outreach programme in Okija.
Responding, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, appreciated AHF for its contributions to HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment in Anambra State. He encouraged sustained collaboration among the government, development partners and other stakeholders to improve access to quality healthcare.
Dr Obidike noted that HIV/AIDS remained a global public health concern requiring collective action, stressing the importance of continued efforts to expand testing, treatment and other essential services for residents.
The visit reaffirmed the commitment of the Anambra State Government and AHF to strengthening HIV/AIDS interventions, expanding access to testing and treatment, and reaching more communities with essential healthcare services.
Also present during the advocacy visit was the Anambra State HIV/AIDS Programme Coordinator, Dr Tonia Mbagwu.
