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• 08 Mar, 2026

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) says women and girls account for more than 60 percent of new HIV infections in sub-Saharan Africa. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation says women and girls account for more than 60 percent of new HIV infections in sub-Saharan Africa. In a statement on Sunday, AHF said it stands in solidarity with women and girls globally, calling for stronger action to address inequalities affecting their health, safety and economic opportunities. Echey Ijezie, country programme director of AHF Nigeria, said the organisation would commemorate International Women's Day with advocacy activities across several states. According to Ijezie, the programme will take place on March 9 in the Federal Capital Territory and six states, including Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Kogi and Nasarawa.He said that despite decades of progress in global health, women and girls remain disproportionately affected by HIV and other structural inequalities. "When women thrive, we all rise. Despite decades of progress, women and girls remain disproportionately impacted by HIV/AIDS, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where they account for more than 60 percent of new HIV infections," Ijezie said. "Globally, gender-based violence, lack of access to healthcare, reproductive rights restrictions, income inequality, and limited educational opportunities further entrench disparities."He added that millions of women and girls also lack access to affordable menstrual health products and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education, affecting their dignity, mobility and opportunities. "We must remind leaders, policymakers and communities that 'Give To Gain' emphasises the power of reciprocity and support," he said. "When individuals, organisations and communities give women and young girls the opportunities and support they deserve, the whole community thrives." Ijezie said AHF Nigeria will organise a continuous medical education programme for health workers in over 156 healthcare facilities where the organisation provides services across the seven states.He said the training would focus on the gender dimensions of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and strategies to support women, particularly those living in rural communities. "We place enormous value on women and girls in the society, and it is the reason why our programmes are anchored around impacting women and young girls," he said. The organisation added that it will continue to advocate policies that protect women and girls while expanding access to HIV services.WSCIJ to Tinubu: Expand participation of women in political leadership, governance Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources. Africa's Greatest Deficit Is Leadership, Not Resources -- ObasanjoFormer President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has said Africa's greatest challenge is not a lack of resources but a deficit in effective leadership. Read more " Nigeria: Corruption, Fiscal Irregularities, and Health DevelopmentsThis news highlights several critical issues in Nigeria, including allegations of undeclared accounts by the Federal High Court Chief Judge, questionable fiscal practices in Edo State, and the significant revenue generated by Akwa Ibom. It also features a commentary on Nigerian politicians' conduct and focuses on the latest advances in HIV prevention with the rollout of Lenacapavir. Read more " IWD: Shinkafi, Aisha Buhari, others named among '2026 Women of Impact in Africa'PREMIUM TIMES management has extended congratulations to Ms Shikafi for the 'well-deserved' recognition. Read more " International airlines resume limited flights to Middle East after disruptionsSeveral international airlines have begun restoring flight operations following recent disruptions, with services resuming gradually on key routes linking the Middle East, Africa and other regions. Read more " Gateway International Airport critical to cargo movement in Nigeria, West AfricaThe Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Shippers' Council, Dr. Akutah Pius Okeyima has described the Gateway International Airport as a critical piece of infrastructure capable of addressing the challenges associated with cargo movement within Nigeria and across the West African sub-region. Dr. Read more " Nigeria's Health Sector Shows Progress Amidst ChallengesThe 2025 State of Health of the Nation Report highlights advancements in Nigeria's healthcare sector, including increased health insurance coverage, training of frontline health workers, and initiatives to combat malaria and HIV. The report also addresses financial protections, emergency services, and strengthening the health value chain. Read more " Source: https://ng.headtopics.com/news/women-account-for-over-60-of-hiv-infections-in-sub-saharan-80710131