Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
A civil society group under the aegis of Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (ASWHAN), Anambra State Chapter, has called for the inclusion and protection of women particularly those living with HIV/AID in the society.
The call was made in Awka during an event to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day.
Themed “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” the event underscored the importance of addressing the social, economic, and political barriers faced by women, especially those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Led by ASWHAN, supported by the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) and in collaboration with Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative (AHNI), the National Human Rights Association, and other stakeholders, the programme aimed to foster inclusivity and combat stigmatisation and discrimination against women living with HIV/AIDS.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Johnbosco Nkem Ementa, the Executive Director of ANSACA, emphasised the need for increased support and investment in women across various sectors. He called for social inclusion and partnership from all stakeholders to ensure the protection of women’s rights and dignity, particularly in workplaces and educational settings.
In her goodwill message, the representative of Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative, AHNI, Dr. Nnama Obiedoo, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to empowering women through capacity-building and skill acquisition programmes. Highlighting the success of past initiatives, Dr. Obiedoo underscored AHNI’s dedication to supporting vulnerable women and alleviating poverty, thereby reducing their susceptibility to HIV/AIDS.
The National Human Rights Commission, Anambra State, represented by Amaka Chisom, pledged continued advocacy and protection of women’s rights.
State Coordinator, ASWHAN Anambra State Chapter, Mrs. Emelda Amaka Adindu, urged government agencies and partners to prioritise social inclusion and hold accountable those who perpetrate stigma and discrimination against women living with HIV/AIDS.
Ikengaonline reports that the commemoration of International Women’s Day 2024 in Awka, Nigeria, served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing efforts to advance gender equality, empower women, and uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals, especially those affected by HIV/AIDS.
