The Abia State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS (ABSACA) has successfully concluded a two-day SACA/LACA Coordination Meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration and enhancing strategies toward achieving HIV epidemic control across the State.
The meeting, themed “Strengthening Multi-Sectoral Coordination Towards Achieving HIV Epidemic Control in Abia State”, was held at Gado Hotels, Umuahia and brought together stakeholders State AIDS Control Agency (SACA) and Local AIDS Control Agency (LACA) representatives from the 17 Local Government Areas in Abia State, to strengthen State and Local Government ownership of HIV programmes.
The training focused on improving service delivery, data management, collaboration, and community level response mechanisms in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Speaking during the opening session, the Director General of ABSACA,Dr Uloaku Emma, who commended the health loving Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for his endeavors in ensuring quality healthcare delivery and improved access to health services in the State, charged participants to approach the training with seriousness and dedication, stressing the need for effective implementation of lessons learned in their various LGAs.
She emphasized that “effective coordination, commitment, and proper understanding of HIV response mechanisms remain key to controlling the epidemic and improving healthcare outcomes in Abia State”.
The two-day programme featured presentations and practical sessions facilitated by experts , including ,Dr.Uloaku Emmanuel Ukaegbu , Director
General ABSACA; Princess Okorie; Technical Officer M&E CCFN; Charles Chijioke ,M & E SASCP;Ndubuisi Kanu , M & E SACA ; Chinedu Iro, M & E SACA; Mark Onoja , MEAL CCFN; in HIV prevention, testing, management, and programme coordination.
Day One focused on Pre-test and Basic HIV/Reintroduction of HIV Testing Services (HTS), Consent and Counseling, Roles and Responsibilities of LACAs in HIV response, as well as Team Building in the context of LACA functionality.
Facilitators explained the importance of proper counseling, ethical consent procedures, accurate testing protocols, and strong inter-agency teamwork in ensuring efficient HIV response systems.
Participants were reminded that “community-based awareness, confidentiality, trust, and quality service delivery are essential in encouraging people to access HIV services without fear or stigma.”
Day Two sessions centered on Key Population Programmes, Harm Reduction and Service Delivery Challenges, Index and Social Network Modalities, Introduction of New Tools, Review of the NDARs Reporting Platform, Next Step Initiatives, and the Development of Action Point Resolutions.
Facilitators extensively discussed practical approaches to addressing challenges encountered in service delivery and highlighted the importance of proper reporting systems and innovative strategies in strengthening HIV intervention programmes.
Participants were also given the opportunity to highlight challenges experienced at the Local Government level, share practical experiences from the field, and propose workable solutions to improve programme implementation in their respective areas.
Delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of participants, Mr. Kelechi Oji commended the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, for prioritizing healthcare development and supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening healthcare systems in the State.
He also praised the Director General of ABSACA for her resilience and commitment, stating that continuous seminars and trainings remain necessary for professional growth and improved performance.
According to him, “capacity-building programmes such as this equip participants with updated knowledge and practical skills needed to strengthen HIV response efforts at the grassroots”.
The programme concluded with the presentation of HIV test kits and other essential materials to support ongoing interventions, reinforcing ABSACA’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and advancing the fight against HIV/AIDS in Abia State.
