Women living with HIV under the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, NEPWHAN, Anambra State Chapter, have received empowerment support from the wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo.
The beneficiaries received equipment and financial assistance aimed at improving their livelihoods, promoting economic independence and supporting them to live productive and dignified lives.
Speaking during the engagement, the Executive Director of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency, ANSACA, Dr. Nkem Okeke, commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo for providing what he described as an enabling environment for strengthening the state’s HIV response.
Dr. Okeke also appreciated the Governor’s wife for her continued commitment to the welfare and empowerment of vulnerable women across the state.
He described the intervention as a practical demonstration that support for people living with HIV should extend beyond access to healthcare.
The ANSACA Executive Director disclosed that the agency is working towards establishing a dedicated Skills Acquisition and Empowerment Centre for women living with HIV.
According to him, the proposed centre will provide beneficiaries with practical training in areas such as fashion designing, baking and other income-generating skills.
Dr. Okeke stressed that HIV care should not be limited to treatment, but should also address economic vulnerability, stigma and social exclusion.
He said the goal was to ensure that people living with HIV are not only able to access treatment but are also empowered to become healthy, productive and economically independent members of society.
The ANSACA boss urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the equipment and financial assistance provided, assuring them of the agency’s continued partnership and support.
The initiative is part of efforts to promote an inclusive HIV response in Anambra State, with emphasis on treatment, dignity, economic empowerment and the elimination of stigma against people living with HIV.
