ANSACA Reaffirms Commitment to Youth-Led HIV Prevention in Anambra
By Chizoba Njaka
The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening youth-led HIV prevention initiatives as the world marks International Youth Day 2026 today Wednesday August 12. The Executive Director/Project Manager of ANSACA, Dr. Nkem Okeke, stated this in a message commemorating the event, noting that young people remain central to the state’s goal of achieving zero new HIV infections by 2030.
Dr. Okeke said the agency was implementing measures in line with the Anambra State Strategic and Sustainability Transformation Plan (SSTSP) 2026–2028 to expand youth-friendly HIV prevention, testing and counselling services. According to her, the initiatives include increased awareness of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), condom education, telehealth services, school and tertiary institution interventions, as well as greater youth participation through the HIV Awareness Brigade.
She noted that ANSACA had continued to take HIV services closer to young people through campus outreaches, motor-park and community testing, moonlight testing, telehealth services and targeted awareness campaigns. Dr. Okeke also disclosed that the agency had established the Tertiary Institutions HIV Action Committee to strengthen HIV prevention and awareness programmes across higher institutions in the state.
She commended the Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, for what she described as his administration’s continued investment in the future of young people through education, skills development, employment opportunities, digital innovation and improved healthcare. “These investments are creating an enabling environment for our young people to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the development of our state,” she said.
The ANSACA boss urged young people to know their HIV status, remain informed, protect themselves and reject stigma and misinformation surrounding HIV.
She also encouraged youths to influence their peers positively by promoting healthy choices and responsible behaviour.
Dr. Okeke emphasised that young people should not be regarded merely as beneficiaries of the HIV response, but as partners and leaders in the campaign to end HIV. She expressed optimism that with collective efforts, Anambra could achieve zero new HIV infections and build an AIDS-free state.