The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has raised fresh concerns about the disproportionate burden of HIV on women and girls across sub-Saharan Africa, noting that they make up more than 60 percent of new infections in the region.
In a statement released on Sunday, March 8, the organisation expressed solidarity with women and girls worldwide and urged stronger measures to tackle the health, safety and economic inequalities they continue to face.
Echey Ijezie, country programme director of AHF Nigeria, announced that the organisation would mark International Women’s Day with advocacy events across several parts of the country.
The activities, he said, are scheduled for March 9 in the Federal Capital Territory and six states — Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Kogi and Nasarawa.
Ijezie noted that while significant strides have been made in global health over the years, women and girls still bear the heaviest impact of HIV and broader structural inequalities.
“When women thrive, we all rise. Despite decades of progress, women and girls remain disproportionately impacted by HIV/AIDS, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where they account for more than 60 percent of new HIV infections,” Ijezie said.
“Globally, gender-based violence, lack of access to healthcare, reproductive rights restrictions, income inequality, and limited educational opportunities further entrench disparities.”
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He also pointed out that millions of women and girls around the world still cannot access affordable menstrual health products or comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education, which directly affects their dignity, mobility and life chances.
“We must remind leaders, policymakers and communities that ‘Give To Gain’ emphasises the power of reciprocity and support,” he said.
“When individuals, organisations and communities give women and young girls the opportunities and support they deserve, the whole community thrives.”
As part of its efforts, AHF Nigeria plans to hold a continuous medical education programme for health workers across more than 156 facilities where the organisation operates in the seven states.
Ijezie said the training will focus on the gender dimensions of the HIV epidemic and practical strategies for supporting women, especially those in rural areas.
“We place enormous value on women and girls in the society, and it is the reason why our programmes are anchored around impacting women and young girls,” he said.
The AHF reaffirmed its commitment to pushing for policies that protect women and girls while working to expand access to HIV services across the country.