The Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS (ASHWAN) and APIN Health Initiatives have expressed concern over the reported discrimination faced by women living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) in Nigeria. ASHWAN emphasized the seriousness of this discrimination issue, urging stakeholders to address it promptly.
During the commemoration of the 2024 International Women’s Day in Akure, Ondo State, the group’s Coordinator, Mrs. Catherine Agboola, highlighted the importance of promoting gender equality for the nation’s advancement. She emphasized that gender equality is not only a fundamental human right but also a crucial foundation for a harmonious, prosperous, and sustainable society.
Agboola stressed the significance of advocating for increased investment and progress for women and girls, aiming for a society free from stigmatization and discrimination against individuals living with HIV/AIDS. While acknowledging progress in areas such as education and women’s participation in leadership roles, she noted persistent gaps that require collective action to achieve true gender equality.
Dr. Folake Adurogbola, the Ondo State Head of APIN Health Initiatives, mentioned that the United Nations has designated ‘Invest in women: accelerate progress’ as the theme for 2024, focusing on addressing economic disempowerment. She emphasized the importance of women engaging in productive activities like entrepreneurship and skills development to alleviate economic challenges amidst Nigeria’s harsh economic climate. Adurogbola encouraged women to actively contribute to their families’ well-being, emphasizing the need for self-reliance and empowerment during these challenging times.
