PESHAWAR: Da Hawwa Lur (Daughter of Eve), a non-governmental organization working to promote gender equality, has proposed an extension in its “Plan of Action” aimed at recommending measures to reduce prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with a particular focus on women and transgender individuals. The year long Plan of Action was drafted by Provincial AIDS Network constituted by Da Hawwa Lur with the objective of containing spread of the deadly virus besides treatment of infected patients. The plan emphasized partnerships with government bodies, healthcare institutions and community-based organizations to implement sustainable and inclusive policies for reducing HIV/AIDS cases in the province. APP
Announcement regarding extension in plan was made during a meeting of Provincial AIDs Control Network held here at a local hotel.
Talking to the participants of the meeting, Miss Aleema of Da Hawwa Lur said the organization is planning to make an extension in the plan for three years from 2026 to 2029.
Aleema shared progress made during one year for curbing spread of HIV/AIDs and awareness being made among the targeted population.
She stated that several meetings were held with various organizations involved in AIDS control, and Rescue 1122 authorities were also engaged to better understand the needs of HIV-positive individuals during disasters.
The Travel Agents Association was also contacted to assist in screening incoming international travelers for HIV and to facilitate treatment for those who diagnosed positive.
She consulted members of the Provincial AIDS Network to gather suggestions for enhancing the plan’s effectiveness and ensuring a lasting impact on public health.
The participants suggested for focusing over research and training to improve disease prevention and treatment measures.
Nayyar Mujeeb of Association of People Living with HIV (APLHIV) suggested for involving Staff Nurses both male and female in treatment of HIV positive patients for removing stigma associated with the disease.
A proposal was also floated to air short educational videos on social media to raise public awareness about HIV symptoms, testing, and treatment.
Representing transgender community, Arzhoo stressed on practical work for reaching out to the patients who are not getting treatment due to stigma and hesitation.
She said many transgender individuals are HIV-positive but, due to peer pressure, social exclusion, fear of losing their livelihoods, they avoid seeking treatment.
