AIDS2026: Anambra Backs Global Call to Rethink, Rebuild and Rise Against HIV
By Uzo Ugwunze
The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has joined the global community as the 26th International AIDS Conference (#AIDS2026), which commenced on July 26 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, continues under the theme, “Rethink. Rebuild. Rise.” The conference is scheduled to conclude on July 31.
The theme calls on governments, health institutions, development partners, researchers, civil society organizations and communities to adopt innovative approaches, strengthen health systems and renew efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
According to ANSACA, the theme reflects the need to consolidate progress in HIV prevention, testing, treatment and care while addressing persistent challenges such as stigma, discrimination, funding gaps and unequal access to healthcare services.
In Anambra State, the administration of Governor Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has continued to prioritize healthcare through investments in health infrastructure, strengthening primary healthcare services, expanding access to quality healthcare and supporting programmes that improve disease prevention and public health outcomes.
The state government has demonstrated its commitment to the HIV response by supporting ANSACA’s implementation of awareness campaigns, community-based HIV testing and counselling, the Healthy Living HIV Control Initiative, the inauguration of HIV Awareness Brigade coordinators across the 21 Local Government Areas (LGAs), and strategic partnerships aimed at reducing new HIV infections and improving access to treatment and care.
ANSACA reaffirmed its commitment to working with the state government, development partners, healthcare providers, the media, faith-based organizations, traditional institutions and community groups to expand HIV prevention services, encourage residents to know their HIV status and combat stigma as well as discrimination against people living with HIV.
The agency emphasized that achieving the global goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 will require sustained investment in evidence-based interventions, stronger community ownership and continuous collaboration among all stakeholders.
As #AIDS2026 brings together scientists, policymakers, advocates and community leaders from around the world to share research, innovations and best practices, ANSACA expressed optimism that the conference outcomes will further strengthen Nigeria’s HIV response and support ongoing efforts in Anambra State to build a healthier and more resilient society.
