The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria on Saturday conducted tuberculosis (TB) testing and counselling for more than 200 people in Nnung Udoe, Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The exercise, held to raise awareness about TB, highlighted the importance of early detection and treatment.
Mr Steve Aborisade, AHF’s Senior Advocacy and Marketing Manager, said the initiative reflected the organisation’s commitment to empowering communities to take charge of their healthcare and wellbeing.
He explained that through Power Voices—an AHF Africa community advocacy club—local people were being encouraged to lead advocacy on health issues affecting them.
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“They are individuals committed to working for the good of their communities and advancing their health interests through awareness creation, education and advocacy. Community ownership is critical to health project implementation and acceptance,” Aborisade said.
He added that AHF would continue to support communities in collaborating with stakeholders to tackle health challenges.
Also speaking, Miss Jessica Umoh, AHF’s Akwa Ibom Linkage Coordinator, stressed the importance of educating residents on TB signs, symptoms and treatment.
“Tuberculosis is curable, and not a death sentence. We are here in collaboration with KNCV Nigeria, collecting sputum samples and analysing them for free. Anyone diagnosed will receive free treatment, which is also available in public health facilities,” she said.
Umoh cautioned patients against relying on herbal concoctions for treatment.
Some members of the community who participated in the exercise commended AHF Nigeria, describing the initiative as timely and beneficial.
NAN