By Akin Awogboro and Yinka Babalogbon from Ado-Ekiti
As part of the government’s efforts to eliminate HIV in Ekiti State, the Excellent Community Education Welfare Scheme (ECEWS) from Abuja paid a visit to the Ekiti State AIDS Control Agency (EKSACA).
The purpose of the visit was to discuss and find solutions to various issues related to key populations, the well-being of young children and adolescents, HIV/AIDS prevention and elimination, care and support for PLWHIV (People Living With HIV) and OVC (Orphans and Vulnerable Children). The main objective was to make these groups beneficiaries of the Government Health Insurance Scheme.
Dr. Charles Doherty, the General Manager of EKSACA, welcomed the ECEWS team and acknowledged the challenges faced by the agency in the fight against HIV/AIDS, particularly the lack of funds and resources. He emphasized the importance of addressing these issues promptly to avoid setbacks in achieving the 95-95-95 goal.
Dr. Doherty promised to work closely with ECEWS to find solutions and assured that efforts are ongoing to include vulnerable groups in the health insurance scheme. He also highlighted the achievements of the agency and emphasized the need for increased collaboration between government agencies and NGOs in the state. Dr. Doherty commended the ECEWS staff for their great work and assured them of the agency’s support whenever needed.
Dr. Onyedinachi Okezie, the Programme Director of ECEWS, stressed the need for increased funding for HIV/AIDS programmes in the state by the government. He explained that there has been a decrease in funds from donors, making it crucial for the government to step up its support.
Dr. Okezie also emphasized the importance and benefits of including vulnerable groups in the health insurance scheme. He highlighted the need for increased awareness and sensitization on the importance of HIV testing and treatment. Dr. Okezie commended the SACA Office for their efforts at preventing mother-to-child transmission and advised that equal attention should be given to other areas, particularly key populations, young children and adolescents.
During the meeting, Pastor Oluwole, Chairman of the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHIV), expressed appreciation to the ECEWS team for their support. He requested motorcycles for effective service delivery, suitable accommodation with necessary equipment, and funding for care and support initiatives for PLWHIV and other related issues.
The SACA Boss affirmed their support for ECEWS and their commitment to working together to find solutions to the challenges faced in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the state.
The meeting highlighted the importance of increased collaboration between government agencies and NGOs in combating HIV/AIDS, as well as the need for increased funding for HIV/AIDS programmes in the state.
