Socially Vulnerable Populations : Leaders Empower To Curb, Cope With HIV

Statistics from the Ministry of Social Affairs indicate that many of its target groups are vulnerable to the HIV pandemic such as persons with disabilities, young prisoners, drug users, refugees or displaced persons, orphans and other vulnerable children. Information further reveals that besides being victims of stigmatisation and discrimination, persons with disabilities, and in particular, those with sensory impairments, present risks of HIV infection equal to or greater than that of abled persons. It is within this backdrop that the Minister of Social Affairs, Pauline Irene Nguene, yesterday, November 23, 2023 in Yaounde, opened discussions which focused on building the capacity of leaders and promoters of community support organisations for young women and men with disabilities or other types of social vulnerabilities to effectively educate each other in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Minister Pauline Irene Nguene said the situation is of utmost concern because Socially Vulnerable Persons (SPVs), represent a significant demographic group in the society as well as a human capital whose contribution is necessary to achieve the national objectives of inclusive development. The Minister explained that persons with disabilities alone are estimated at 3,736,000 in the country, and around two-thirds of whom are visually or hearing impaired. Within the context where the country has adopted the 95-95-95 objectives which aim to eliminate HIV by 2030, there is need for more innovative, multi-sectoral and concerted action to combat the pandemic amongst SPVs. Minister Pauline Irene Nguene l...