Dealing with HIV-Related Stigma in Nigeria: A case for media engagement
Murphy Akpu
Adviser @ UNAIDS | MD/MPH/MPhil | Commonwealth Scholar | Global Health, Health Systems, Health Financing, Health Equity, Partnerships for Health, Health Advocacy, Health Journalism
Recently, a popular skit maker in Nigeria named Bimbo Ademoye posted a short video on her Facebook reel. In this video, she made a joke about a person living with HIV. The punchline was that the person’s HIV test result was supposedly used to wrap a local meat delicacy called “suya.” The skit’s main character even mocked the person living with HIV in the local Igbo language, referring to them as a “carrier of rubbish.”
Now, here’s the important part: Ms. Bimbo’s comedic content, although unintentional, had harmful effects on the lives of people living with HIV. But what’s even more concerning is the reaction it received from a wide range of Nigerians. The video garnered over 1.6 million views, 72,000 likes, 8,000 laughter emojis, and only 5 angry emojis.
This incident sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Nigerian society. Many people remain uninformed about the progress made in HIV response efforts over the past 20 years. Thanks to these efforts, more than 1.6 million Nigerians now have access to life-saving antiretroviral treatment. Additionally, millions have gained knowledge about HIV prevention and services, including mothers living with HIV who can give birth to HIV-negative children.
However, there are still gaps to address. The media plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions, but negative stereotypes and misinformation persist. New media platforms outside of traditional channels are also emerging, and they need to be part of the solution. To tackle these issues, organizations like the Journalists Against AIDS, PEPFAR, and UNAIDS held a co-creation workshop in November 2023. They emphasized the need to engage, reorient, and recruit the media as transformative partners in the fight against HIV.
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In summary, combating HIV-related stigma requires collective efforts, informed communication, and a commitment to dispelling myths. Let’s work together to create a more understanding and supportive environment for all individuals, regardless of their HIV status. ??
Remember, it’s essential to treat everyone with kindness and empathy, especially when discussing sensitive topics like HIV. Let’s continue spreading awareness and fighting stigma!
Strategic Communication|| Broadcast Media Specialist|| Ace Programme Producer|Communications Consultant @ UNAIDS|| Media Relations|| Public Relations|| Documentry expert|| Digital & Graphics skills|
11 个月I agree, leaving anyone behind in HIV interventions is detrimental in itself, talk more of the media. Providing knowledge & information on comprehensive and equitable access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care is crucial for Nigerian populace. However empowering the media to take the lead in SBCC & ACSM will go a long way in promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and providing support to those affected by HIV.
Health Communication Specialist | Public Health Physician | Management Consultant
11 个月Thank you for this Murphy. It is a vivid example of the danger (and opportunities) available in the (social) media space. It is clear that we must reengage and sustain this engagement with the media and other stakeholders within a sustainable communications framework in order to achieve the 95-95-95 targets and end AIDS by 2030 in Nigeria. We are grateful for the support of PEPFAR in this regard. From the output of the co-creation workshop (organized by JAAIDs and Livinghealth) you mentioned we have a clear roadmap to address this critical concern and we look forward to implementing this in the months ahead. More efforts and resources must be devoted to communicating HIV - and by communicating, i do not mean just Behaviour Change Communication as a tool for prevention. In this age and time, social media influencers are important voices in the fight against stigma associated with HIV and PLHIV. Can you please send me the link to the offending post? We have a cohort of influencers I had the pleasure of training in a workshop organized by NACA with support by WHO and APIN. They can engage with the offending post with correct information. Thanks ????