As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, (IWD), AIDS Heathcare Foundation, (AHF), has called for better empowerment for women as they bear the brunt of the HIV/AIDS epidemic with 870,000 becoming newly infected annually.
“The world is at a critical point in its battle with HIV/AIDS, and regrettably, women take the brunt of the epidemic, particularly in developing countries,” says AHF Senior Director of Global Advocacy and Policy Loretta Wong in a statement.
She added that “there are almost 19 million women and girls living with HIV worldwide, with 870,000 becoming newly infected every year.”
She called on government and community leaders to keep the promise to women by guaranteeing they have equal and unfettered access to the healthcare services they need.
The foundation’s Nigeria Country Program Director Dr. Echey Ijezie, notes that ‘‘women, who account for almost half of Nigeria’s estimated population of about 200 million, are generally lagging behind in all aspects of life and, for them, #BalanceForBetter!- would be a promise worth keeping.’’
The Advocacy and Marketing Manager, AHF-Nigeria, Steve Aborisade, explained that the organisation is hosting an exhibition to honour the courage of everyday ordinary women who through their and skills and crafts, keep their families out of poverty.
He said, the exhibition set to hold on the second Thursday of March in Abuja, will involve select women from across the suburbs who will be displaying their wares and showcasing exceptional courage.
The organisation urged world leaders at all levels to do everything in their power to create a more equitable world—one that ensures women and girls are safe, secure and have unimpeded access to lifesaving HIV testing, prevention and treatment services.
#BalanceForBetter! Is the theme for this year’s IWD which is recognized annually on March 8.
