The Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria wants the government to include them in support programs like palliative distribution, social investment funds, and conditional cash transfers.
The association's National Coordinator, Esther Hindi, made this request at an event for International Women's Day in Asaba, the Delta state capital.
Hindi explained that this year's theme, “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” aims to empower women with skills to reduce their vulnerabilities.
She said, “The International Women’s Day 2024 campaign theme ‘Invest in women: Accelerate progress' is a call to invest in women in all aspects.
“It is also a call to value investment in women and girls living with HIV to ensure they enjoy their rights and have a decent livelihood.
“Therefore, we call on the government to include women living with HIV in support programs, palliative distribution, and create job opportunities for them.
“Our women have been working at the facilities as volunteer Mentor Mothers for over 15 years. Let the Ministry of Health help us employ our women.”
She noted that the association had provided mental health training for young adolescent girls living with HIV to provide mental health counseling to their peers
The Delta State Coordinator of ASWHAN, Rita Amuwah, expressed pride in the association's values and mission to create a positive impact in the state and community.
She thanked the state Director of women’s affairs, and the program manager SACA among others for all support over the years.
“We are thrilled to have you join us in this year’s International Women’s Day celebration and looking for a better celebration”, she said.
They urged the Federal and State Ministry of Justice, Human Rights Commission, and House of Assembly to ensure domestication of anti-stigma law and enforcement where need be, to protect the rights of women living with HIV and to give them an enabling safe space.