The Kano state government has set aside N69 million for the purchase of quick test kits in an effort to reduce HIV/AIDS transmission in the state.
According to The Times, this was disclosed by the Health Commissioner, Dr. Labaran Yusuf, at a news conference held in Kano to honour World AIDS Day in 2023.
Yusuf clarified that in order to address the ongoing problem of stock shortages, these test kits would be sent to 590 healthcare establishments. This action fits within a larger plan to guarantee that everyone has access to testing supplies, with the goal of having 95% of people know their HIV status by 2025.
The Commissioner focused on the Ministry and state Agency for the Control of AIDS would intensify efforts to deliver comprehensive HIV services, fostering collaboration with communities and civil society groups.
A large chunk of the allocated money, N5.9 million, was set aside for the purchase of third-line drugs. The purpose of this investment is to improve HIV care and treatment for those who need it.
On the occasion of World AIDS Day, Yusuf acknowledged the two million people in Nigeria and the 38 million people living with HIV/AIDS globally and showed support for the international community.
“We stand in solidarity with 38 million people worldwide on World AIDS Day, including two million HIV-positive Nigerians and the families of those who lost their lives to the disease.”
In the struggle against HIV/AIDS, Yusuf reaffirmed Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s dedication to community empowerment. He revealed that more than 600 HIV-positive individuals were enrolled in the Basic Health Care Provision Fund with assistance from the USAID-LHSS project.
Yusuf gave figures, stating that as of January, 4,728 out of 138,430 people have tested positive for HIV. Notably, the state has started 46,732 positive people on anti-retroviral therapy (ART).
Declaring that the state had finally reached its three percent HIV budget objective, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf submitted N2 billion to the state parliament, marking a significant accomplishment, according to Yusuf.
Yusuf concluded by pleading with communities to support the fight against discrimination and stigma and highlighting the need of universal access to treatment, care, and support services.
