Youth leaders have been urged to proactively engage in healthcare and build their capacity to combat HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. This call was made at a one-day advocacy workshop organized in Awka, Anambra State, by the Coalition for Children Affected by AIDS, Vibrant Young Voices Consortium, GNP+RIATT-ESA, Y+Global, SWEAT, REPSSI, and PATA. The event focused on equipping community advocates to drive the global advocacy agenda on healthcare financing for children and adolescents impacted by HIV. Discussions also covered the funding gaps in addressing youth healthcare needs, feedback mechanisms on advocacy messages, and strategies to elevate youth voices in health policy.
Carinna Csaky of the Coalition for Children Affected by AIDS emphasized the need for capacity building for community workers globally to address the inequities that hinder HIV/AIDS prevention among children and adolescents, aiming for an end to AIDS by 2030. Csaky noted that without cohesive action from NGOs and community advocates, preventable diseases like AIDS will continue to claim lives, especially among youth.
For his part, Mr. Francis Casmir Nwankwo, member Youth Advisory Group VYV consortium for Y+ Global, highlighted the importance of fully including young people, especially those with disabilities, in health policy discussions and decision making. He reiterated the workshop’s objective to engage young people in HIV/AIDS-related healthcare, addressing the challenges they face in health facilities. Nwankwo encouraged participants to maximize social media platforms for advocacy and avoid focusing solely on monetary incentives.
Various participants shared their experiences. Okechukwu Joshua, from a community-based HIV/AIDS organization, mentioned that misinformation and cultural misconceptions often deter clients from understanding their health. Chibuzor Victory and Ezegwu Chioma pointed out that age restrictions and lack of incentives limit opportunities for young people in healthcare, including funding for initiatives. Echezona Ajuluchukwu, focusing on children and adolescents with HIV/AIDS, highlighted issues such as medication shortages, limited pediatric support, and insufficient trained personnel. Mr. Franklin Atogu of Be Glad Care And Support Foundation encouraged youths to voice their concerns and pursue active roles in decision-making processes.
Mrs. Priscilla Onyema from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Anambra State stressed the significance of educating intervention workers, affirming the agency’s commitment to collaborating with youths to combat drug abuse, which hampers societal progress.
Dr. Tonia Mbagwu from the State Ministry of Health assured the Young advocates that the government is very interested in engagement the Youths and she will ensure the beautiful work of the government is sustained which includes youth empowerment and engagement.
Participants were also introduced to ethical engagement practices, aimed at empowering young professionals to provide technical support and collaborate effectively within the healthcare sector.
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