IPNEWS: The National AIDS Commission has released a sobering report, revealing that Liberia is home to 36,000 individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
This staggering number represents a significant increase from last year’s total of 34,000. According to the Commission’s Chairperson, Dr. Cecelia Nuta, women remain disproportionately affected by the disease, accounting for a substantial majority of those infected. This trend underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and increased domestic support to sustain HIV services.
As the world prepares to mark National AIDS Day on December 1, Dr. Nuta emphasized the importance of collective action to combat the epidemic.
“The rising number of people living with HIV/AIDS in Liberia is a stark reminder of the work that remains to be done,” she stated. “We must prioritize the needs of women and other vulnerable groups, ensuring they have access to life-saving treatment, care, and support.”The National AIDS Commission’s report highlights the persistent challenges facing Liberia in its fight against HIV/AIDS. Despite progress made in recent years, the country continues to grapple with a high prevalence of the disease, particularly among women.To address this issue, Dr. Nuta called on the government, civil society, and international partners to increase their commitment to HIV/AIDS programming.
“We need sustained support to maintain and expand HIV services, including testing, treatment, and prevention programs,” she urged.The Commission’s appeal comes as Liberia’s health sector faces significant resource constraints. With the country’s healthcare system still recovering from the devastating effects of the Ebola outbreak, the need for external support has never been more pressing.As Liberia marks National AIDS Day, stakeholders are urged to reflect on the progress made so far and the work that remains to be done. By uniting to combat HIV/AIDS, Liberians can ensure that everyone affected by the disease receives the care and support they deserve.
By: Prince Mathias Nagbe
