In a significant move towards equitable healthcare, the Lagos State Government, through its AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), has launched a dedicated two-day sensitisation campaign.
The campaign aimed at enhancing HIV prevention and awareness among individuals with hearing and visual impairments.
The initiative, held during the week at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa-Ikeja, underscored the agency’s commitment to inclusive public health strategies.
Dr Folakemi Animashaun, Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, affirmed the state government’s dedication to ensuring that no resident is marginalised in the ongoing efforts to manage and control HIV and AIDS.
“Inclusion is not an act of charity; it is an act of justice,” Animashaun stated during the opening ceremony, commending Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration for its steadfast commitment to equity under the THEMES Plus development agenda.
She highlighted the systemic barriers often encountered by people with disabilities, particularly those with hearing and visual impairments, in accessing crucial health information and services.
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These barriers, she noted, increase their vulnerability to HIV infection and exposure to stigma.
Animashaun explained that the outreach program was meticulously crafted to educate participants on practical HIV prevention methods, combat stigma and discrimination, and ensure that all HIV-related messaging is fully accessible to these communities.
“This programme is not just about sharing information,” she emphasized.
“It is about empowering a community to become active participants and advocates in the HIV response.
“We are committed to achieving zero new infections, zero discrimination, and zero AIDS-related deaths in Lagos State. Reaching people with disabilities is essential to this goal.”
Further demonstrating its inclusive governance approach, Animashaun revealed that the state government has translated vital Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials into braille.
She added that the state government is providing sign language interpreters to facilitate the effective dissemination of crucial HIV prevention and management information.
She said the government remains steadfast in its mission to broaden access to life-saving HIV services, strengthen health systems, and guarantee that every individual and community in the state is included in the ongoing response to HIV and AIDS.
