ANSACA Takes HIV Prevention, Integrated Health Services to Abacha Community
By Chizoba Njaka
The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has extended its grassroots health intervention to Abacha Community in Idemili North Local Government Area, bringing free HIV prevention, testing and other integrated healthcare services closer to residents.
The outreach, which took place on August 15 at Abacha Amaka Hall, Olise Market, featured free HIV testing and counselling, hepatitis screening, tuberculosis (TB) screening, blood pressure checks and health education.
The programme was organised as part of the Abacha Youth Unity Hangout 2026, hosted by the Abacha Youth Association. The event provided ANSACA with an opportunity to engage young people and other residents on preventive healthcare and promote healthier lifestyles within the community.
During the exercise, the ANSACA team educated participants on HIV and other communicable diseases, stressing the importance of knowing one’s health status, early detection and prompt treatment. Residents were also advised to avoid drug abuse and other risky behaviours capable of undermining their health and wellbeing.
The traditional ruler of Abacha, HRH Igwe Nwabunwanne Godwin Odiegwu, commended ANSACA for bringing the health services to the community and urged residents to make use of available preventive healthcare opportunities. The monarch demonstrated his support by voluntarily participating in the health screenings.
Similarly, the President of the Abacha Youth Association, Solomon Nwabueze Onyiagha, expressed appreciation to ANSACA for taking the services directly to the people. Onyiagha said the association remained ready to sustain collaboration with government agencies and other stakeholders in initiatives aimed at improving the health and overall development of Abacha Community.
ANSACA said it would continue to strengthen its grassroots and community-based approach to HIV prevention and control by expanding access to HIV testing, counselling, health education and other integrated health services across communities in Anambra State.
The outreach attracted a large number of residents, especially young people, who took advantage of the free services. The turnout highlighted the value of bringing essential healthcare interventions directly to communities where people live, work and socialise.