Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Chinsali District of Muchinga Province remains on track towards achieving the national and global targets of ending HIV/ AIDS by 2030.
The media reports that speaking at this year’s World AIDS Day commemorations held at Chinsali Presidents’ Park, Acting Chinsali District Commissioner, Iness Mulenga, said government will continue to support programmes that safeguard the health and well-being of the people in the district.
Ms Mulenga said this year’s theme ‘Overcoming Disruptions: Transforming the AIDS response’, is a reminder that ending HIV/AIDS is not a task for the health sector alone, but requires united efforts from every individual, family, schools and institutions.
“This year’s theme ‘Overcoming Disruptions: Transforming the AIDS response’ reminds us that although progress has been made, our journey towards ending HIV/AIDS requires resilience, innovation and unity,” she stated.
She added that Zambia, among other countries over the years, has faced several disruptions that have also slowed down the momentum in the fight against the disease but have also taught the nation the need to adapt, have strong health systems and community engagement.
Meanwhile, Director Health Technical Services for Chinsali District Health Office and Local Authority, Kennedy Kabuswe, has disclosed that the district has hit close to 100 percent of people on antiretroviral drugs surpassing the set target of 95 percent.
Dr Kabuswe added that those whose viral load has been suppressed stands at 96 percent with people who are aware of their status reaching 98 percent.
He further stated that although the district is on course, it should still maintain the 95/95/95 target until the virus is suppressed in everyone on treatment.
He further urged parents and guardians to get involved in the fight by ensuring that the welfare of children is also taken care of by taking them to health facilities for HIV /AIDS services.
Dr Kabuswe said Chinsali has made commendable progress in the HIV response through various health facilities, dedicated health workers and support from partners.
“Generally as a district, we are doing very well in HIV response which has sustained HIV testing services, increased access to Antiretroviral therapies and strengthened community -led interventions,” he added.
Dr Kabuswe also stated that despite all the achievements, challenges such as stigma and discrimination have remained a critical factor that needs to be dealt with.
