World AIDS Day observed across Nagaland with calls to end Stigma & promote awareness

December 2, 2024 3 Views No Comment

DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 2 (MExN): Nagaland joined the global community in commemorating World AIDS Day 2024 through diverse programs in all districts, focusing on the theme “Take the Right Path: My Health, My Right!”. The observances highlighted efforts to combat stigma, raise awareness, and promote prevention and care for HIV and AIDS.

In Kohima, Minister for Health and Family Welfare, P Paiwan Konyak, led the celebration at the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS) stall at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama. Stressing the need to eliminate discrimination and stigmatisation of individuals living with HIV, the minister urged collective efforts to support those affected. He also administered a pledge to raise awareness about HIV prevention. The event featured a flash mob, the release of balloons, and the inauguration of the NSACS stall.

NSACS recognized significant achievements, including an award to Dimapur district for reaching the UNAIDS first 95-95-95 goals and another to Jailu Gonmei as the “Longest alive and on ART in Nagaland.”

In Chümoukedima, the District Integrated Strategy for HIV/AIDS (DISHA), in collaboration with the Dimapur District Legal Services Authority (DDLSA) and other partners, organized a program at the CPO Hall. Senior Medical Officer (SMO) at ART Plus Centre Dimapur, Dr. Hotoka Hesso, provided a detailed overview of the current HIV situation in the districts of Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland.

Dr. Hesso reported that approximately 6,900 individuals in these districts are receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), with the majority aged between 15 and 45 years. He noted that 89% of transmissions are attributed to unprotected sexual activity, while 7% are linked to drug use involving shared needles—a notable increase from earlier years. This rise, he said, reflects the growing prevalence of substance abuse in the region.

“Ending AIDS requires that we prioritize and engage everyone affected by HIV,” Dr. Hesso stated, emphasizing the need to reach vulnerable groups, including children, transgender individuals, sex workers, and people in prisons. He highlighted the importance of early diagnosis, regular testing, and adherence to ART, which enables those living with HIV to lead long, healthy lives.

In line with the theme of this year’s observance, Dr. Hesso stressed the need to address stigma and discrimination. “When people feel safe accessing HIV care, they are empowered to protect both their health and their rights,” he said. He also advised preventive measures such as practicing safe sex, testing and treating STDs, and avoiding unsafe practices.

The program in Chümoukedima included solidarity messages, a speech by Moa, President of DNP+, who shared insights on living with HIV, and contributions from DDLSA advocate Saku Longchar. The event closed with a candle-lighting ceremony symbolizing hope and solidarity.

Meanwhile, Dimapur hosted a similar program highlighting the importance of engaging the community in HIV prevention and care. Speakers reiterated the growing challenges posed by stigma, calling for collective action to create safe spaces for those affected.

In Zunheboto, the Town Hall hosted a program organized by DISHA and NDPP, attended by community leaders and government officials. Deputy Commissioner Rahul Bhanudas Mali highlighted the high prevalence of HIV in Nagaland, urging regular testing and healthcare support for people living with the virus. He also called for increased funding and proactive measures from the Health and Family Welfare Department.

Dr. Anatoly Suu, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, emphasized the importance of sex education and prevention to reduce transmission, particularly among adolescents. Community leaders, including Sumi Totimi Hoho President Vitoli Rochill, spoke on the role of women in prevention efforts and the importance of collective action to address stigma.

The program concluded with a musical performance by Mika Zhimo and a candle-lighting ceremony to honor individuals living with HIV.