Kano State has reported 4,274 new cases of HIV/AIDS in the past year following the testing of 326,831 individuals across healthcare facilities.
The initiative, conducted in 592 primary healthcare centers, 43 public secondary facilities, and select private clinics, has brought the total number of individuals receiving Antiretroviral Treatment (ART) in the state to 32,684.
Speaking at a press conference to mark World AIDS Day 2024, Kano State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Labaran Yusuf, emphasized the government’s commitment to HIV prevention, treatment, and care.
“We are committed to improving healthcare access and ensuring that those living with HIV receive the care they need,” Dr. Yusuf stated, adding that all newly identified cases have been enrolled in ART programs.
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To curb the spread of HIV, Kano State has implemented various initiatives, including a pre-marital screening law mandating couples to undergo tests for HIV, sickle cell, and genotype before marriage.
The state has also allocated 3% of its health budget to the Kano State AIDS Agency to fund HIV-related programs.
In addition, the government is enhancing support for vulnerable groups. Over 600 Orphan and Vulnerable Children (OVC) and 2,200 People Living with HIV (PLHIV) have been enrolled in the state’s contributory healthcare scheme, which provides free healthcare access. Plans are underway to enroll an additional 2,500 individuals in the coming months.
The state’s efforts are backed by the Kano State Health Trust Fund and partner organizations like the Local Health System Sustainability (LHSS) project.
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Under the 2024 World AIDS Day theme, “Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!”, Dr. Yusuf called for collective action against HIV-related stigma and discrimination.
“We must all come together to fight against the stigma and ensure that those affected by HIV can live healthy, dignified lives,” he said.
While Kano’s expanded testing and treatment efforts reflect progress in addressing HIV/AIDS, the state continues to grapple with the challenges of raising awareness and combating societal stigma.
The government’s comprehensive strategy aims to sustain these gains and achieve universal access to prevention, care, and treatment for all residents.