Church plays pivotal role in prevention of HIV through extensive advocacy
Kohima, August 24 (MExN): An advocacy on HIV & AIDS for local area church leaders was organized on August 23 at NBCC Platinum Hall, Kohima. It was organized by Nagaland Development Outreach and sponsored by Legislators’ Forum on AIDS.
The Legislators' Forum on AIDS (LFA) in its annual general meeting on February 8, 2016 had unanimously resolved that Church will play a pivotal role in prevention of HIV in the State through extensive advocacy programmes.
A press release from Dr. Vinito L. Chishi, State Consultant, LFA informed that the Forum’s intention is to reach out to all tribal churches in towns and villages. In this effort, all Executive Secretaries of 20 Baptist Associations and 4 Associate Members will be involved. Besides, coverage will be given to other denominations in a phase manner.
LFA will also extend advocacies among other faith based organisations such as Hindu and Muslim communities.
This resolution made is a revival of NBCC policy dated March 16, 2007, which was long overdue for implementation, stated the release. “LFA is thankful to the legislators for their concern and support in this endeavours keeping an eye on HIV Adult Prevalence Rate (0.78%) and General Population Prevalence Rate (1.29%) as it stood in June 2016 (NSACS data),” it added.
