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ICASA 2023: Redefining the Fight Against HIV/AIDS and Emerging Diseases in Africa 

Neeyarh 143 Comments , , , , ,

The International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) 2023 was a beacon of hope and urgency, illuminating the critical battle against HIV/AIDS and other emerging diseases in Africa. This pivotal event, held in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, gathered leaders, activists, scientists, and communities to address the complexities of the region’s health landscape and its impact on vulnerable populations. 

Themed “AIDS Is Not Over: Address Inequalities, Accelerate Inclusion, and Innovation,” ICASA underscored the continued threat of AIDS and the imperative need to act decisively. Key objectives revolved around mainstreaming equity, reinforcing domestic financing and community response, addressing multiple health crises, and bolstering health systems to mitigate the impact of various diseases, including HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, Ebola, and Hepatitis. 

The conference emphasized the invaluable role of communities in leading the fight against HIV/AIDS. It shed light on the dire consequences of diverting HIV resources to combat COVID-19, hindering progress in HIV response efforts. Yet, the call to action remained resolute – Africa cannot relent in striving for an AIDS-free future. 

Distinguished speakers at ICASA, including UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima and Honorable Frederick Shava, echoed the urgency of prioritizing AIDS as a continuous focal point for all stakeholders. They emphasized the need for holistic action to reach everyone in need, especially through intensified prevention efforts for young women, adolescent girls, and key populations. 

“Emerging from this conference we are clear. To end AIDS, governments and partners need to step up HIV prevention efforts. And they need to ensure that every person living with HIV has access to treatment, both current antiretroviral treatments and new longer-lasting injectable medicines, to live long and healthy lives” – Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS 

“AIDS is not over and should stay a priority for the government, partners, donors, communities, and all stakeholders” – Hon. Frederick Shava 

While strides have been made in expanding antiretroviral treatment access, the conference highlighted the gaps that persist, particularly in pediatric treatment. Gender inequalities continue to fuel new infections, with young women disproportionately affected. Delegates stressed the necessity of closing these gaps, advocating for equitable treatment access and comprehensive prevention services. 

A resounding call emerged from ICASA to accelerate innovation in HIV prevention strategies. Delegates urged the adoption of new options, such as long-acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB-LA), to stem new infections. Recognizing the pivotal role of communities, the UNAIDS World AIDS Day report Let Communities Lead underscored that ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 hinges on robust community support, including political and financial backing. 

As part of efforts supporting communities to lead the journey to end AIDS in Africa, with support from ISDAO, ANAYD hosted a virtual hub in Nigeria which allowed Adolescents and Young Persons (AYPs) in their diversities to join the conference virtually. Participants identified the vital roles that program ownership, advocacy and storytelling play in young people’s efforts to contribute maximally to the fight against AIDS. 

However, obstacles persist. The criminalization of key populations obstructs access to essential services, compelling governments to remove such barriers. Calls to augment political and financial support for community-led responses and civil society organizations reverberated throughout the conference. Recognizing the pivotal role of these organizations, it was emphasized that removing restrictive laws would ensure safer operational environments and stronger support for vulnerable communities. 

ICASA 2023 was a rallying cry for collective action and solidarity in the fight against HIV/AIDS and emerging diseases. The resounding message echoed – through unity, innovation, and community-led initiatives, an AIDS-free Africa is an achievable reality. 

Neeyarh

Hi there, welcome to the #1 blog for LADIES! You can call me Neeyarh, a Nigerian, lover of God, wife, humanitarian worker and writer. If you are on this blog, then you are most definitely a lover of life and fun. Right here you will find useful tips and experiences for having a beautiful and fulfilling life. So, enjoy the diary entries, poetry, volunteering stories, and life hacks that I have put together specially for you. The idea is to support women as we strive for a fulfilling life amidst all that life throws at us.

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