South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Mayak Majak Madit Tokjok
At least 30 individuals from across Lakes State, including media personnel, police officers, prison officers, health workers, women representatives, and government officials, attended a two-day training session on HIV/AIDS prevention.
The initiative aims to strengthen community awareness and reduce new infections.
Speaking during the opening of the training yesterday, Dr. Achol Ayom, the Deputy Chair of the National HIV/AIDS Commission, stated that individuals confirmed by the Ministry of Health to be living with HIV/AIDS should be able to access treatment comfortably.
She emphasised the importance of following precautionary measures, including abstaining from sex, being faithful to one’s partner, and using condoms.
Dr. Ayom explained that the virus is transmitted through sexual intercourse and sharing sharp tools, including razor blades and syringes.
“This can enhance the longevity of a person who has not contracted HIV/AIDS. From 2006 to 2024, 95 percent of the population accepted testing, revealing that 6,600 individuals are positive. However, 5 percent of the population is unaware of their HIV/AIDS status. Inadequate funding, poor investment in HIV/AIDS, and stigma are significant challenges,” she warned. She also advised people against being tested in pharmacies outside Rumbek Hospital and Kiir Mayardit’s Women’s Hospital.
Hon. Priscilla Arop Malieny, Chairperson of the HIV/AIDS Committee in Lakes State, stated that the state government has established laws to protect individuals living with HIV/AIDS from discrimination. She affirmed that legal action would be taken in accordance with human rights issues.
She urged participants to spread awareness in their communities about how the virus is transmitted and how to protect oneself. It is the responsibility of the Ministry of Health to oversee the distribution of free medications for this virus.
Malieny called upon parents to discourage their young daughters from leaving school to work in hotels, as they may be influenced by individuals affected by HIV/AIDS who might offer them money, potentially leading to infection. She described this as child abuse and highlighted the state government’s commitment to human development.
Malieny praised the state authorities, particularly Governor Rin Tueny Mabor, for stabilising the security situation. She noted that health institutions must take action to combat threatening diseases, as the country aims to eliminate HIV/AIDS by 2030. Health facilities need to demonstrate and commit to their work in the counties of Lakes State.
“The greatest part of insecurity has been reduced to zero, which can also be attributed to H.E. Gen. Salva Kiir Mayardit, President of the Republic of South Sudan, for his appointment of the governor in June 2020 for Lakes State. The training brought together participants from various institutions, including media houses, judges, police officers, national prison officials, health officials, and women representatives.”
