PERSONS WITH HIV & AIDS NEED TO BE EMPOWERED WITH JOBS

Enugu mapThe Executive Secretary and Programme Manager, Enugu State Agency for HIV and AIDS control, Dr. ChukaAgu, says people living with HIV and Aids should be empowered through job creation. Dr. Agu made this known on the occasion of World Aids Candle Light Memorial Day in Enugu

As AIDS is the second leading cause of death among adolescents globally and the leading cause of death in Africa, Dr.ChukaAgu noted that the state had a network of people living with HIV, stakeholders, partners and peer educators who often created awareness on HIV and AIDS.

Dr.Agu expressed satisfaction that people living with HIV and AIDS now have a legal backing against stigmatization and discrimination especially in work places. The Director Public Health, Ministry of Health, Enugu State, Dr.OkechukwuOssai, observed that the issue of AIDS had become a government concern.

AIDS Candle Light Memorial Day, which is celebrated every May 21, is an initiative coordinated by the network of people living with HIV and AIDS since 1983. The coalition is comprised of over 1000 communities and organization representing more than 100 countries.

The aim of the global network is to ensure that people living with HIV infection are educated on the prevention and treatment efforts to eradicate stigmatization and discrimination as well as empowerment to improve the dignity and quality of life of HIV victims. Activity to mark the event is lighting of candle lights to remember those who died from HIV infection and complications of AIDS.

The Theme of this year’s celebration is “Ending AIDS Together.”

EVELYN AWUNOR

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