The 2023 World AIDS Day observance in Akwa Ibom has left behind resonating echoes that are expected to guide stakeholders in the state HIV response.

The Akwa Ibom State Agency for the Control of AIDS -AKSACA and its Partners had displayed interest during the weeklong commemoration from November 25 through December 1 to promote community leadership with its lineup of activities which was centred on access to communities in Uyo and the hinterlands of Ibesikpo Asutan, Uruan, Ikot Ekpene and Eket.

Most significantly the AIDS control Agency in the mix of activities it floated to mark the global event was a symposium which took place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom’s capital city.

At the symposium, perspectives of the World AIDS DAY focus were delibrated by Persons living with HIV – PLHIVs, Development Partners; USAID, ECEWS, AHF, CCCRN, MAP-IT, and other collaborators.

Speaking at the gathering, the Commissioner for Health Professor Augustine Umoh who represented the state Governor Pastor Umo Eno noted that having communities lead the response was long overdue.

On the capacity to drive community-led initiatives, the Project Manager for AKSACA, Dr Enobong Akpan said attention will be tilted to citizens taking ownership and improving the HIV prevention strategies.

The symposium had field experts in a panel discussion speak to issues that could hinder community involvement in Akwa Ibom’s HIV epidemic control while outlining solutions to be explored.

Inspiration FM’s Senior Health Correspondent IMA DEM reports that a key advocacy from Persons living with HIV, other stakeholders at the symposium was the urgent need for domestication of the Anti Stigma and Discrimination Bill in Akwa Ibom state.

Here, the Co-Chairman of the State Prevention Technical Working Group Prof Anietie Moses emphasizes embracing the bill for effective community Leadership.