DIMAPUR — Along with the rest of the world, Nagaland observed World AIDS Day on Friday on the theme “Let communities lead.” World AIDS Day is an international day dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection and mourning those who have died of the disease.
Dimapur: Dimapur district observed World Aids Day 2023 at the chapel hall of the District Hospital, Dimapur, with the general secretary of Dimapur District GBs’ Association, Neiba Kesiezie, as the speaker.
Speaking at the programme, Kesiezie shared that 50% of HIV infected persons were drug users when the virus was first detected in Nagaland. He recounted how the women community played a vital role in taking care of infected person in those days.
He suggested involvement of HIV community in the policy making in order to benefit them.
“Let the community share their ideas and participate and then only it will be a successful and fruitful policy,” he said.
President of Naga Women Hoho, Dimapur, Duoneinuo Kire, in her solidarity message, called upon everyone to strive to champion the cause for people affected with HIV. She believed that by promoting accurate information, people can significantly tone down the barriers and challenges faced by the people living with HIV.
She stated that it should be the responsibility of every right-thinking citizen to create a just and inclusive society, where everyone regardless of their HIV status can strive and excel in life.
Songs were presented by Osenro Ovung, Lansobeni Tungoe and residents of Prodigals’ Home.
Phek: Phek District AIDS Programme Control Unit (DAPCU) observed ‘World AIDS Day’ at Dr. Wethselo T Mero Memorial Hall of the District Hospital, Phek, with the additional deputy commissioner (ADC) of Phek, Ruopfukuotuo Noudi, as the special guest.
The programme was jointly organised by DAPCU, ELF, LSP and Vihaan, sponsored by Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS).
Speaking on the occasion, Noudi said that stigmatisation and discrimination prevailing in the society remain as a significant challenge. To fight against the problem, he called upon the churches, civil societies and NGOs to come together to ensure success of HIV response.
In order to achieve the goals, he stressed on strictly adhering to medical practitioner advice, spread awareness, conduct publicity campaign etc.
Dr. Ngopelo Keviechu, senior medical officer at DH Phek, spoke on the benefits of adhering treatment and consequences of non-adherence to healthcare provider advices. He also highlighted the different factors for poor adherence such as misguided medication, economic factors, patient-related factors etc.
Khrusazo Nyekha, associate pastor of PTBC, stated that to combat HIV/AIDS, church should play significant role by providing spiritual counseling, prayers etc. He also emphasised on coordination between the medical department and churches to achieve its goal.
YMS: Yingli Mission Society (YMS) in Tamlu under Longleng district observed ‘World AIDS Day’ on December 1.
An update from the society stated that the significance of the day was delivered by Dr. Chai-e, medical officer of CHC Tamlu, while short speech was delivered by A Metyong, ICTC counselor at CHC Tamlu.
The programme was chaired by A Hamngoi, ORW (SP), while an invocation prayer said by B Shaophen, pastor of TTBC, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Pangom, ORW of YMS. About 60 participants including OST clients, officials of YMS and staff of CHC Tamlu attended the programme.
NEISSR: Red Ribbon Club (RRC) of Northeast Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) observed World AIDS Day by organising a painting competition at NEISSR Hall, 7th Mile, Chümoukedima.
RRC president, Limeka P Wotsa, stressed the importance of communities taking the lead in awareness, education and support for people living with HIV/AIDS. "Together, we can make a significant impact in reducing new infections and improving the lives of individuals living with HIV/AIDS," Wotsa said.
Highlighting the significance of community empowerment, Wotsa emphasised that communities possess firsthand knowledge of the unique needs and concerns of their members. She added that by empowering communities to take charge, a more inclusive and effective response to HIV/AIDS could be fostered.