Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Rebecca Chimjeka
Published on 2024-03-18 06:18:27
Investing in women can be a key strategy in curbing the spread of HIV in a country, according to United Nations Programme on HIV/Aids (UNaids) Country Representative Nuha Ceesay. Ceesay emphasized the importance of focusing on eliminating HIV infections in order to ultimately end Aids in women and girls. Speaking in Lilongwe during the launch of the 2023–2027 strategic plan for the Coalition of Women Living with HIV and Aids (COWLHA), Ceesay stressed the need for accessible and quality HIV and Aids services to achieve this goal.
Ceesay highlighted the UNaids target of ending Aids by 2030 and emphasized the importance of bringing down new HIV infections among vulnerable populations, particularly women. By specifically targeting women in the fight against HIV, Ceesay believes that progress can be made towards ending the epidemic.
COWLHA Board Chairperson Wezi Mjojo also spoke at the event, stating that the successful implementation of activities outlined in the strategic plan relies on a strong performance management framework. Mjojo emphasized the need to empower women and girls to challenge inequitable power structures, cultural norms, attitudes, and behaviors that put them at risk of gender-based violence and HIV infection.
The Ministry of Health Director of HIV and Aids, Rose Nyirenda, echoed the sentiments of Ceesay and Mjojo, emphasizing the government’s commitment to improving management and building the capacity of women’s organizations involved in HIV prevention efforts. Nyirenda stressed the importance of establishing predictable partnerships and sustainable funding sources, including increased use of domestic resources, to achieve the goal of ending Aids as a public health concern in Malawi by 2030.
Nyirenda highlighted the significance of the five-year implementation plan as a crucial step towards eliminating HIV from the country. By investing in women, enhancing access to quality HIV and Aids services, empowering women and girls, and addressing underlying social and cultural factors contributing to the spread of the virus, progress can be made towards achieving the UNaids target of ending Aids by 2030.
Overall, the key message from the event was the vital role that women play in the fight against HIV and Aids, and the need for targeted interventions to address the specific vulnerabilities and challenges faced by women and girls. Through a multi-faceted approach that combines prevention, treatment, empowerment, and advocacy, it is possible to make significant strides towards ultimately ending the HIV epidemic in Malawi and beyond.
Read the original article on The Times
