Anambra State is set to mark this year’s World AIDS Day with a week-long programme of activities, including the state’s first International HIV Science Symposium, as part of efforts to strengthen HIV prevention, treatment and policy response.

The Executive Director and Project Manager of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), Dr. Nkem Okeke, disclosed this on Aug 8, during an interview with the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), explaining that the programme would bring together local and international stakeholders to share knowledge and strengthen the HIV response.

According to Okeke, delegates from the international HIV community are expected to participate in the activities, alongside HIV experts, researchers, policymakers, programme managers, development partners and representatives from different states.

“Representatives from participating states are expected to present interventions that have produced results in their communities, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to learn from successful approaches and consider how they can be adapted to local realities”, he noted

A major focus of the symposium, Okeke explained, would be translating scientific evidence and programme experiences into practical policies and sustainable interventions that can improve HIV outcomes.

He noted that the gathering would enable stakeholders to examine persistent challenges in the HIV response, discuss emerging prevention strategies and identify opportunities for stronger collaboration among government institutions, health professionals, communities and development partners.

Okeke said the initiative would help deepen partnerships and encourage greater use of research, innovation and shared experiences in shaping HIV policies and programmes, particularly efforts to prevent new infections and improve the wellbeing of people living with HIV.

He emphasised the importance of moving beyond discussions to practical action, noting that scientific knowledge and lessons from successful interventions should translate into policies and programmes that respond to the needs of individuals, families and communities.