Coordinated Actions Are Necessary To Halt HIV Stigma And Discrimination Within The Health Sector.
Ms. Roberta Araba Amoquandoh, the HIV Coordinator at Ashaiman Municipal, highlighted the urgent need for a collaborative approach to combat the prevalence of stigma and discrimination (S&D) surrounding HIV-related healthcare issues. At the ongoing 22nd International Conference on Aids and Sexually Transmitted Infections in Africa (ICASA) held in Harare, Zimbabwe, she emphasized the detrimental effects of S&D, which hinder individuals’ access to essential HIV testing, treatment, and care. Amoquandoh emphasized the pivotal role of various stakeholders in addressing this issue, advocating for comprehensive training for health professionals to address the negative impact of S&D. She underlined the critical need for support from healthcare management and active engagement with community stakeholders to effectively address and reduce the stigma associated with HIV.
Discussing the success story of Ashaiman’s proactive efforts in achieving an S&D-free status, Amoquandoh highlighted the integral role played by the management of healthcare facilities. Their adoption of an action plan to curtail stigma and discrimination has been vital in transforming the approach towards HIV care. Amoquandoh also stressed the importance of creating a supportive environment for individuals affected by HIV, enhancing relationships between healthcare providers and those living with the virus, thereby reinforcing confidence and trust among both parties.
In parallel, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Health and Child Care, disclosed the country’s current status regarding HIV incidence and prevalence rates. He noted the progress made in reaching treatment goals, indicating that out of the 1.3 million people living with HIV in the country, over 1.2 million were undergoing treatment. Dr. Mombeshora further emphasized the nation’s commitment to the Zimbabwe National Development Strategy 1, aiming to end AIDS by 2030, despite setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted the importance of continued efforts to extend healthcare services to vulnerable populations, including adolescent girls, young women, sex workers, and other key groups affected by HIV.
The ongoing ICASA 2023, themed “AIDS is not over: Address inequalities, accelerate inclusion, and innovate,” aims to foster collaborative efforts to combat HIV, addressing the prevailing challenges and inequalities. This conference, organized by the Society for AIDS in Africa in collaboration with various partners such as the World Health Organization and the Global Fund, provides a platform for sharing experiences and promoting constructive dialogue, fostering a collective approach towards ending AIDS by 2030.
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