Dr. Razia Fatima, National Coordinator CMU & Dr. Abdul Wali Khan, DNC TB with Provincial Secretary Primary and Secondary Health, Mr Ali Jan, and Provincial Program Manager Punjab in Lahore on 15th December 2023.
Author: Communications Team
High level briefing of National Coordinator CMU, Dr Razia Fatima, with Federal Secretary Health MoNHSRC and Director General Health rGLC mission staff and CMU colleagues on 13th December 2023. Senior colleagues such as DNC TB and MDR Speacilist were also present.
Dr. Razia Fatima, NC CMU chaired the monthly progress & coordination meeting with HISP/MC regarding implementation of TB case base (DHIS2) . Dr. Abdul Wali Khan DNC TB was also present
Deputy National Manager of Pakistan, Dr. Abdul Wali Khan, along with Dr. Asif Shahwani, PTP Manager Balochistan, Deputy Manager Dr. Sherfgan Raisani, Dr. Bahawal SPPO, and other officials recently visited BMC Hospital. The visit included discussions with MS Dr. Kamalan Guchki on the TB program and the installation of the COBAS machine provided through the National TB Program. The delegation also visited Nawab Ghous Bakhsh Hospital in Mastung, acknowledging the efforts of DHO Dr. Rasheed M. Shahi and the hospital administration in TB interventions. Dr. Abdul Wali Khan also appreciated the monitoring efforts, including visits to Dots Centers and Genexpert sites, as well as overseeing oxygen plants for optimal functionality.
The Ministry of National Health Services Regulation & Coordination (M/o NHSR&C) and the National AIDS control program (NACP-CMU), in collaboration with UNICEF and UNAIDS, organized a two-day orientation session for National Prevention of Parent-to-Child Transmission (PPTCT). The objective was to orient participants, including clinical and program managers with public health backgrounds, on key aspects of PPTCT and pediatric HIV management.
With support from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria (GFATM) and partners, the Government of Pakistan has expanded the number of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) centers to 75 nationwide, enhancing geographic accessibility. However, the current challenge lies in the insufficient number of functional PPTCT sites (12) and Pediatric ART centers (20). To address this gap, there is an urgent need to strengthen existing PPTCT sites and establish new ones under a unified, one-stop-shop model. UNICEF Pakistan #UNAIDS Common Management Unit, Ministry of Health Pakistan
National Coordinator, Dr Razia Fatima, addressed the audience at the PR-SR Coordination Meeting on 6th December 2023 in December.
December 1st marks World AIDS Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness, commemorating those we’ve lost, and rallying support for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
On 1st December 2023, Pakistan witnessed a powerful and impactful event orchestrated by UN agencies, in collaboration with the Common Management Unit for the Global Fund (AIDS, TB & Malaria). This significant program unfolded within the artistic embrace of the Pakistan National Council of Arts.
A Gathering of Influential Minds
The venue was not just a backdrop; it was a symbol of the intersection between art, culture, and the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS. The event drew together influential personalities from the Government of Pakistan, United Nations (UN), World Health Organization (WHO), and diverse communities. Their collective presence underscored the commitment to tackle the challenges posed by this global health issue collaboratively.
Federal Health Minister, Dr. Nadeem Jan, said that the Government of Pakistan is firmly committed to eradicating the AIDS epidemic by 2030, aligning with the global HIV milestones. It is crucial to address healthcare & societal imbalances to ensure that no one is marginalized or left behind.
Speaking on the occasion, Iftikhar Ali Shallwani, Federal Secretary of Health, said “The world can end AIDS, with communities leading the way. Communities living with, at risk of, or affected by HIV have a greater role to play & need to join the frontline forces to halt the upward trend of the HIV epidemic.”
“We all need to join hands and connect for providing person-centered public health services, build trust, innovate, monitor implementation of policies & services, and hold providers accountable.” – Iftikhar Ali Shallwani, Federal Secretary of Health, while addressing on the occasion of World Aids Day.
Dr Razia Fatima, National Coordinator CMU, emphasized on the collaboration of all partners for to eradicate the disease.
Advocacy in Action
The program comprised panel discussions and presentations that delved into the intricacies of HIV/AIDS, shedding light on the latest developments, challenges, and strides made in the ongoing battle against the disease. The theme for World AIDS Day 2023, ‘Let Communities Lead,’ echoed throughout the discussions, emphasizing the critical role communities play in spearheading efforts to combat the disease.
Voices of Resilience
One of the focal points of the event was the empowerment of those living with HIV/AIDS. The program championed the idea that individuals with firsthand experience of the disease should take the lead in eradicating stigma. By sharing personal stories, challenges, and triumphs, these brave individuals became the architects of change, breaking down barriers and fostering understanding.
Collaborative Commitment
The collaboration between government bodies, international organizations, and grassroots communities highlighted the urgency of a united front in the battle against HIV/AIDS. The Common Management Unit for the Global Fund played a pivotal role, emphasizing the necessity of coordinated efforts to combat not only AIDS but also tuberculosis and malaria.
Community Engagement
This year’s theme, ‘Let Communities Lead,’ came to life through the active participation of organizations working directly with the community. Stalls adorned with information and resources from organizations like Dareecha showcased the impactful work being done at the grassroots level. These organizations exemplify the spirit of community-led initiatives and their indispensable role in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
In a poignant play staged by the transgender community from Dareecha, the script artfully illuminated the everyday challenges faced by its members, providing a raw and unfiltered glimpse into their lives. The performance courageously portrayed the slow journey towards acceptance, urging the audience to empathize with the struggles often hidden from the spotlight. Through powerful storytelling, the play served as a heartfelt testament to resilience, fostering a deeper understanding of the transgender community’s quest for acknowledgment and equality.
A Call to Action
As we reflect on the events of World AIDS Day 2023 in Pakistan, the call to action reverberates. Beyond the discussions and presentations, there lies a shared responsibility to advocate for education, prevention, and support for those affected by HIV/AIDS. The day served as a reminder that the fight against this global health challenge is ongoing and requires continued dedication from individuals, communities, and nations.
In the spirit of unity, let us carry the momentum forward, breaking down barriers, dispelling myths, and supporting those affected by HIV/AIDS. World AIDS Day may be a designated day of reflection, but the commitment to change and progress is a year-round endeavor.
Sports events provide an important platform to raise awareness about various issues and their reach to a vast audience can not be underestimated. Cricket is the most popular game not only in Pakistan but across the sub-continent. Millions of people from all walks of life actively take interest in the game and cricket matches are an excellent place to raise awareness about major issues such as HIV awareness. Keeping this in view, the APLHIV has organized a Cricket Championship in Islamabad.
This is the first of its kind event in the history of HIV response in Pakistan. Five teams from APLHIV, UN System, CMU, Dareecha Male Health Society and Speak Trust are taking part in the event. Large numbers of students, teachers, PLHIV, KPs and general public from all walks of life attended the event. All the teams are wearing red ribbons to show solidarity with the HIV community. Awareness messages about HIV are displayed across the ground and surrounding vicinity in the heart of Islamabad to raise awareness and combat the many myths associated with HIV.
In a riveting showcase of skill and determination, the CMU cricket team soared to the finals of the Cricket Championship, commemorating World AIDS Day 2023. Their journey, marked by victories and a commendable display of sportsmanship, garnered well-deserved applause.
The CMU staff and management stood united in cheers, bolstering the team’s spirit throughout. The presence of the National Coordinator as the chief guest added prestige to the event. While the coveted victory slipped away, CMU’s collaborative effort, both on and off the field, stands as a testament to their commitment to awareness and excellence. Congratulations on a memorable journey!
Dr. Razia Fatima, National Coordinator CMU graced the occasion of one day consultation for Stigma reduction organised by UNDP in Islamabad.
Mena Bazar Extravaganza
National Coordinator CMU, Dr Razia Fatima, graced the Meena Bazar with her presence. The APLHIV in Collaboration with WHO organized a 2 day Meena Bazar—An activity by the community and for the community organized by the APLHIV in Islamabad. Since its inception in 2021 this event has become an annual event due to increasing demand and interest of communities. The objective of the Meena Bazar is to polish the skills of community members, to showcase/exhibit their skills and create linkages with customers for the future. Over 35 stalls by the Community from all provinces and regions of Pakistan were organized. The general public flocked to the venue and showed keen interest in all products on sale by the community. This event provides a unique opportunity for community members to show their skills to the general public while at the same time educating the general masses on HIV while challenging the many myths and stigma associated with HIV. Over 40% of stall owners are female & approx 10% belong to the TG community. This event provides a unique and safe space for public to interact with HIV communities in a friendly and convivial environment thus contributing towards empowerment of the communities. This event is a visual demonstration of this year’s theme for WAD i.e. LET COMMUNITIES LEAD. The APLHIV intends to provide ground to promote and encourage communities who are earning their livelihood and also provide this great opportunity for general public to be educated about HIV and help to eradicate stigma.
The event was attended by Federal Minister for Human Rights Ms Mishal Hussain Malik. Furthermore APLHIV’s partners from UNAIDS, UNDP, UNICEF graced the event with their presence. The event was also attended by European Council representatives, Ambassador for the Kingdom of Netherlands, various Diplomats residing in Islamabad, Boy Scouts Association, Islamabad Bar Council, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce, teachers, students and a large number of people from everyday life.
