The Kano State Government (KNSG) has pledged to maintain its current level of funding for HIV/AIDS initiatives in the state. This commitment comes as the support from partner organizations gradually decreases, prompting the government to take ownership and ensure sustainability.
Dr. Usman Bashir, the Director General of the Kano State Agency for the Control of AIDS, announced this during the closing of a two-day workshop organized by the Agency. The workshop received support from Solina International Development and Research (SCIDaR) and took place at Hotel Seventeen in Kaduna on Sunday.
Dr. Usman Bashir explained that the purpose of the workshop was to finalize and align the Agency’s Annual Operations Plans with those of its supporting partners. This alignment aims to strengthen HIV/AIDS activities in the upcoming year of 2024, minimizing duplication and the wastage of scarce resources by reallocating them to areas of greater need.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the Kano State Agency for the Control of AIDS (KSACA) is actively planning and preparing its team to implement activities independently as an implementing partner. This shift in approach is necessary as donor support is dwindling. The agency is also dedicated to enhancing the capacity of its staff to ensure long-term ownership and sustainability of HIV/AIDS programs.
Dr. Usman Bashir expressed his appreciation for all partners involved in the HIV response in the state. He acknowledged their participation in showcasing their Tentative Annual Operations Plans (AOP) during the workshop, which allowed for harmonization and input from stakeholders.
This engagement, a first of its kind for the agency, resulted in a comprehensive AOP with detailed costings, awaiting finalization in the State Budget. The Kano State Government remains committed to addressing the challenges posed by HIV/AIDS, ensuring that essential funding is sustained despite the decrease in partner support
