UN Agencies Unite to Tackle HIV/AIDS in Angola

By: Adeniyi Modupe. Freelance Health Reporter.

A map of Africa showing the location of Angola (right) and the northeastern province of Luanda Notre. Click on image to enlarge.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12, 2024. Angola faces a widespread HIV epidemic driven primarily by sexual transmission. According to a national health survey, women within the ages of 15-49 are more likely to contract this disease than their male counterparts. The widespread epidemic is concentrated in urban centers and eastern/southern regions like Lunda Norte province.

Recognizing Lunda Norte as a priority area, a joint UN team led by the National HIV/AIDS Institute (INLS) and comprising UNAIDS, WHO, UNICEF and other groups visited the province on June 10-11, 2024. Their mission was to advocate for and raise awareness around Angola's 7th National HIV/AIDS Strategic Plan (PEN7).

"Joining forces allows us to strengthen HIV prevention and treatment initiatives targeting young people, children affected by HIV and improved sexual/reproductive health services," stated a UNAIDS representative. "Integrating efforts is key to reducing gender-based violence drivers."

The visit  included an outreach at the Lôvua Settlement Clinic and meetings with the provincial governor, health officials, civil society and private sector leaders. Discussions were focused on preventing mother-to-child transmission, paediatric/adolescent HIV care and services for high-risk populations.  

"Prioritizing vulnerable groups like children and youth is crucial," a UNICEF representative stressed. "Robust prevention and treatment access can safeguard Angola's future generations."

A UNFPA spokesperson added, "Effective HIV/AIDS response requires a multisectoral approach. This mission exemplifies partnerships in action to implement PEN7's roadmap."

The mission supports the Global Alliance to End AIDS in Children and the Global HIV Prevention Coalition. By uniting stakeholders, it aims to accelerate progress against Angola's HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Source: World Health Organization Newsroom.

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Published: June 12, 2024

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