HIV Response: NACA Organizes Media Roundtable For S’South Journalists

As part of activities to engage the media in the various dimensions of HIV response, the South-south zone of the National Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS, NACA has organized an HIV media roundtable.

The event which is aimed at creating a synergy between implementing partners, the media and other relevant stakeholders on emerging HIV/AIDS related issues was held in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

Speaking at the event, South-south Zonal Coordinator, Dr Uduak Daniel noted that the media is a catalyst for social and behavioral change hence they should be actively involved for accurate reportage on HIV/AIDS.

Dr. Daniel urged media personnel to work closely with other stakeholders to put HIV issues in proper perspective.

Rivers State House of Assembly Chairman, Committee on Health, Hon Sam Ogeh commended the South-south Zonal Coordinator for the initiative of a media roundtable to publicize HIV which has been relegated to the background due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hon Ogeh called on the media to be proactive in disseminating information that would help the public to remember that HIV/AIDS still exists hence they should take precautionary measures.

Also speaking, Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Dr Linus Nsirim represented by Mr Celestine Ogolo in his goodwill message said the Rivers State government is committed to ensuring that people of the state receive quality healthcare which includes people living with HIV/AIDS.

On his part, Acting Executive Director of RIVSACA, Dr George Waeke represented by the Project Manager, Dr Francis Naaziga said the agency is working hard to create more awareness on HIV, testing services and reduce stigma in the state.

The South South Media Roundtable had media personnel, implementing partners and other stakeholders from Akwa Ibom, Edo, Cross Rivers, Bayelsa and Rivers State in attendance.