“My boyfriend was regularly sick. He passed away in 1999. I sensed his death may have been caused by HIV, but initially I could not bring myself to go for testing. After a year of crying, I tested for HIV and started treatment. I got married in 2007 and now have 2 children. Because I’ve been on treatment and am healthy, my children are HIV-free. Going through the experience, I saw that many women were suffering from abuse, violence and isolation, not knowing what to do after realizing they have HIV. In 2015, I set up a small organization called Community Health Support and Empowerment Initiative - CHSEI, NGO (COHSEI). We have helped over 200 women and children stay at our shelters, and access HIV testing and treatment. We also run a farming centre to help women access microloans, so they can rent land and earn income by growing and selling yams. When we are together, we are stronger than HIV.” -Priscilla Ingbian Simon, 39, leader of COHSEI, a community organization in Nigeria Communities of people living with HIV and community health workers have played a key role in the HIV response. On World AIDS Day 2019, WHO is highlighting the difference these communities are making to end the HIV epidemic while drawing global attention to the need for their broader engagement in strengthening primary health care. Listen to their stories on making the difference and changing lives.
