Luanda: The United Nations AIDS Strategic Information Advisor in Angola, Isabel Daniel, has called for a significant financial commitment of USD 145 million to successfully implement the 2023-2026 Strategic Plan for the Response to HIV/AIDS in Angola. This announcement was made on Thursday at the II International Congress on the Response to HIV in Angola, where Daniel expressed concerns over the current funding status.

According to Angola Press News Agency, Daniel highlighted that the country currently only possesses USD 35 million, which she deems inadequate to address the growing demands. She pointed out that this financial shortfall has led to many critical activities being left unimplemented.

Daniel stressed the importance of involving various sectors, including media, education, and transportation, to collectively enhance the response to HIV/AIDS. She raised concerns about the sexually active population in 80% of Angola's municipalities, particularly among young people and vulnerable groups such as sex workers, who face a heightened risk of HIV infection.

The UN official also advocated for the provision of accessible prevention packages, especially targeting young people and adolescents. She referenced studies indicating that sexual activity often begins at an early age, around 14 or 15 years old, underscoring the need for comprehensive sexual education programs.

Furthermore, Daniel noted that Angola's eastern provinces report the highest HIV rates, signaling a need for targeted interventions in these areas.

Inªs Gaspar, representing the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS, addressed the ongoing stigma and discrimination faced by individuals with HIV/AIDS. While acknowledging the government's efforts to ensure access to antiretroviral medication, she emphasized the necessity to expand health services for vulnerable patients and expressed concern over the shortage of condoms in the country, which she believes undermines prevention strategies.