By Vincent Ujumadu

The Anambra State Government has called for renewed efforts to make HIV a regular topic of discussion within families, stressing that the fight against the disease must begin at home.

The Executive Director and Project Manager of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), Dr. Nkem Okeke, made the call in an interview, saying everyone has a role to play in achieving holistic control of the HIV epidemic.

Okeke said HIV prevention, testing, treatment and the fight against stigma should not be left to government and healthcare professionals alone. He urged families and communities to engage in open and regular conversations about the disease.

According to him, honest discussions about HIV within families would encourage early testing, improve access to treatment, reduce stigma and discrimination, and promote healthier lifestyle choices among both young people and adults.

“The fight against HIV requires the collective efforts of parents, guardians, community and religious leaders, schools, the media and other stakeholders to raise awareness and strengthen preventive measures,” he said.

Okeke reaffirmed ANSACA’s commitment to expanding public awareness campaigns and strengthening partnerships aimed at reducing new HIV infections, while ensuring that people living with HIV have continued access to quality care, treatment and support.

He also urged residents of Anambra State to know their HIV status through regular testing and support ongoing efforts to eliminate the epidemic in the state and across the country.