Calabar – In a bid to raise awareness and combat the spread of HIV/AIDS, WinnieHarry Global Foundation organized a commemorative event in Calabar, the Cross River state capital metropolis, on Saturday, December 2, 2023, marking the World AIDS Day. The foundation in partnership with ECEWS, CUDA and Madoxx Projects Limited committed to the fight against HIV/AIDS, gathered stakeholders, advocates, and community members to address the prevalent issues surrounding the epidemic NEGROIDHAVEN has confirmed.
Ms. Favour Oyeba Ogar, the Founder and Executive Director of WinnieHarry Global Foundation, emphasized the need for unity and collective action, urging the community to come together under the foundation’s umbrella to fight against HIV/AIDS. She stated, “Let the strength of our hope be a beacon to a world without AIDS.”
Mr Obeten Ifere from Cross River SACA highlighted the importance of community leadership in ending AIDS by 2030, emphasizing that government efforts alone cannot ensure universal access to services. The speaker encouraged everyone to play a role, stating, “The theme of the World AIDS Day says ‘Community Leadership to End AIDS by 2030.’ The theme is apt for us at this time because we need everybody; everybody is a leader.”
Mr. Atti Ekpenyong the Project manager of WinnieHarry Global Foundation outlined the activities for the AIDS intervention project, including free HIV counseling and testing, distribution of free condoms, and other health services. He stressed the importance of raising awareness and providing essential services to combat the epidemic.
Mr. John Ekpeni, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer from Cross River State Agency for the Control of AIDS, expressed concern about the state’s HIV prevalence rate and emphasized the need for government ownership and community responsibility. He urged individuals to take responsibility, aligning with this year’s World AIDS Day theme focusing on community engagement.
Mr. Sunny Abrah, CEO of Madoxx Projects Limited and representative of Chief Ayi Etim Effiong the Executive Secretary of Calabar Urban Development Authority highlighted the timeliness of HIV testing, particularly in preparation for the carnival season. He addressed the theme, “Let Community Leads,” emphasizing the community’s role in eradicating stigmatization of HIV/AIDS patients.
In conclusion, the event which was well attended by residents from the environ provided a platform for various stakeholders to address critical issues surrounding HIV/AIDS, including prevention, testing, proper use of contraceptives and community involvement. Present at the event was the Director General of Primary Healthcare Development in the state, a representative of the Head of Local Government Administration (HOLGA) in Calabar South.
WinnieHarry Global Foundation’s commitment to creating awareness and offering services underscores the collective effort required to achieve an AIDS-free future.
