Kohima: Communities uniting against HIV

Dr Vizolie Z Suokhrie addressing the World AIDS Day event held at Hotel Japfü, Kohima on December 1. (Morung Photo)
 

Morung Express News
Kohima | December 1

The Nagaland State AIDS Control Society along with its Partner NGOs and Development partners commemorated the World AIDS Day by marking a 'Meritorious Award' on December 1 at Hotel Japfü, Kohima under the theme ‘Communities Make the Difference.’

Dr Vizolie Z Suokhrie, Principal Secretary, Department of Health & Family Welfare, graced the occasion as the special guest.

“In a world of growing inequalities, fragility and discrimination, communities are ensuring that no one is left behind,” said Dr Ngangshimeren, Project Director- Communities in his introductory speech, pointing out that communities include PLHIV, key population- gay men and MSM, drug users, sex workers, transgender and prisoners. Over the years, communities have contributed greatly to the AIDS response where they have taken the lead in supporting the delivery of HIV prevention, treatment, care and support for their peers, mentioned Dr Ngangshimeren. Most essentially, these communities have further helped people claim their rights and access stigma free health and social services, besides offering social protection, safety, solidarity and support to one another.

“In order to highlight the role of communities in the fight against HIV and AIDS, the NSACS decided to recognize and honor the significant contribution of the community members, NGO partners, SACS employees,” stated the Project Director, further hoping that the awardees will continue to sustain such good practices.

Acknowledging the contribution of the communities, Special Guest Dr. Vizolie Z. Suokhrie pointed out the support and significant role of the Church in the issue of HIV and AIDS in Nagaland. “The Church's contribution has played a significant role in reducing stigma and discrimination to a great extent which is not seen in other States,” said Dr. Suokhrie.

The need to stop stigma and discrimination was emphasized which according to Dr. Suokhrie still continues to be a challenge not just for the State but globally. The issue of Stigma, for Dr. Suokhrie, is the biggest challenge for all of us.

“When I talk about communities, that involves all of us. If we really want to achieve zero infection, we have to do away with stigma and discrimination. We need to focus on providing lifelong access to the most effective antiviral. This requires lots of concerted efforts from the government, development partners for continuous and sustained awareness,” said Dr. Suokhrie.

Candidates who received the meritorious awards were Vikheli Zhimomi (Akimbo Society Dimapur), Abou Mere (NUN), Moasangba (Guardian Angel, Dimapur), Seketole Kera (NUN Jakhama), Kahuli Yeptho (CAD Foundation, Dimapur), Aching (KNP+), CAD Foundation, ICTC, Jalukie CHC, PTTCD DH, Dimapur, ART Plus, Kohima, Mobile CTC Kohima, DAPCU Peren, Suraksha Clinic, DH Kiphire and OST centre Mon.