The Federal Ministry of Health, through the National HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, and STIs Control Programme (NASCP) on Thursday in Abuja launched the Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) Optimization Toolkits for Taraba and Rivers
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, at the ceremony, said the initiative aimed at improving pediatric HIV Early Infant Diagnosis services in Taraba and Rivers.
Pate, who was represented by Dr Adebobola Bashorun, National Coordinator of NASCP, highlighted the toolkit as a collaborative effort with the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) and the ministry, signifying an important step forward in healthcare quality in the states.
He said that the toolkit, with processes and tools for quality improvement, extended its applicability to enhance overall care for mothers, infants and families.
“The toolkit’s development was facilitated by the successful application of the Program Optimization Approach in the EID Point of Care (POC) Optimization project, with active contributions from participating health facilities
“Early outcomes showcase positive impacts on programme indicators, suggesting the toolkit’s effectiveness.
“Lessons and tools presented hold potentials for broader applications, improving healthcare services for mothers, infants and families,” he said.
He said that the government remained committed to creating a conducive environment for partners and stakeholders, aligning with national frameworks and emphasizing effective monitoring and evaluation.
He said there were plans for broader implementation across states, involving state government representatives and programme coordinators, with the toolkit intended for widespread adoption.
Addressing challenges, Dr Avese Torbunde, EGPAF’s Country Director, expressed gratitude for collaboration and urged for sustained efforts and collaboration to address challenges in the fight against pediatric HIV.
Torbunde highlighted that EGPAF’s Project DELTA 2, initiated in 2019, stood as pivotal initiative providing comprehensive and cost-effective technical assistance, capacity building and programme implementation expertise.
She said that the overarching goal of the project was to optimize the impact of HIV-related programme, employing high-impact technical approaches across various areas such as health system strengthening and strategic information.
“This includes evaluation, quality improvement, community engagement, operational research, organizational development, project management and HIV service delivery.
“EGPAF’s commitment to advancing these areas underscores its dedication to making a lasting impact in the fight against pediatric HIV,” she said.
According to her, the project aims to enhance and expedite progress in Pediatric HIV and Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) services in Nigeria by utilizing existing resources and leveraging sustainable strategies.
“Currently focused on Abia, Benue, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers states, EGPAF collaborates closely with NASCP, state ministries of health, and CDC Lead Implementing Partners, to coordinate stakeholder engagement and foster a unified vision.”
On state-level impact, Dr Garba Danjuma, Director-General, Taraba State AIDS Control Agency, highlighted the toolkit’s role in bolstering the state’s pediatric HIV response, addressing risks, optimizing resources, and ensuring judicious allocation to those in need.
Danjuma said that Taraba aimed to refine its approach, showcasing a proactive dedication to sustaining success in the fight against HIV in Nigeria.
He said that the EGPAF Project’s multifaceted support, including capacity building and community strengthening, contributed to the state’s commitment.
