The Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) has joined the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, UNDP and the Government of Nigeria to convene a National Consultative Workshop to discuss ways to strengthen interventions against Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Nigeria.
The workshop, which held in Abuja, attracted representatives from the Ministries of Health, Justice, the National Human Rights Commission, UN in Nigeria, and Commissioners of Health and Justice. Also in attendance were civil society organizations, the media, policy makers and program implementers.
At the event, stakeholders stressed the need for practical, evidenced-based actions to improve health as well as social and judicial services to address GBV and IPV in the country.
Head of HIV at The Global Fund, Dr. Izukanji Sikazwe stated that the Global Fund is committed to partnerships to address HIV, TB, and malaria through the Global Fund Grant Cycle 8 (GC8).
“This meeting is a time to talk about HIV and the structural and social barriers to reaching the end of HIV. My hope is that we move from discussion to action. It matters deeply for us if we are to reach the 2030 targets to address these challenges.”
Dr. Sikawe explained that the GC8 includes IPV as an essential activity under HIV programming.
“For the first time, we included Intimate Partner Violence and Post-Rape Care as essentials. This is an opportunity for us to ensure that we prioritize our limited resources to interventions that will shift the epidemic.”
The workshop featured plenary sessions, panel discussions on the current realities of IPV and GBV in the country. It also featured deliberations on key steps and practical solutions to address challenges identified.
Representative of the Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Charles Nzelu said that evidence has shown that IPV/GBV prevents HIV testing.
“This is a very serious issue. I am sure that under GC8, this will be captured. Nobody has the right to violate the rights of others.”
According to HIV Project Director Global Fund Nigeria TB HIV Reach Integration and Impact Project, Dr. Olayemi Olupitan, the Institute will continue to collaborate to address IPV/GBV in the country.
“Working together with the Government of Nigeria, NEPWHAN and Community Rights Advocates have been engaged in spotting cases within the community and helping to refer individuals to Global Fund supported sites where they can access vital services.”
