The Ekiti State AIDS Control Agency (EkSACA) has hosted the Stakeholders meeting for the Global Fund Cycle 7 (GC7) on HIV and TB Global Health Response (GHR),
basically to review performance, share lessons learned and strengthen coordination among key players in the state’s HIV/TB response.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Agency, Dr.Dairo Ojo emphasized the importance of staying committed to the global 95-95-95 target aimed at eliminating HIV/AIDS by 2030.
The SACA Boss highlighted the need for sustainable HIV programmes in the face of evolving global support, referencing to the U.S. President Donald Trump’s policy decisions, which disrupted funding and workflow for many HIV intervention programmes.
“We must take ownership of our HIV response as a state and reduce reliance on unpredictable international support. Sustainability is not optional—it is our responsibility,” he stressed.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Omotayo Olatilu, who was represented by the Director of Women Affairs, Mrs Olukemi Akinleye commended the efforts of EkSACA in curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS across the state, assuring the Agency of the Ministry’s unwavering support, especially in reaching vulnerable groups such as women and children.
A health education session was delivered by the EkSACA HIV Testing Services (HTS) Officer Matron Folami, focusing on HIV prevention, adherence to antiretroviral therapy, regular testing and positive living with HIV. She reminded the participants about the importance of community engagement in reducing stigma and encouraging early diagnosis.
There was detailed presentations of Quarter 1 updates by Local AIDS Control Agency (LACA) Managers, Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and representatives of line ministries.
The reports equally highlighted progress, challenges and opportunities across various communities in Ekiti State.
Participants left the meeting energized and committed to scaling up interventions, enhancing community outreach, and building a resilient, locally driven response to HIV/AIDS and TB in Ekiti State.
