LISAP calls for zero discrimination against HIV

Malawi-Livingstonia Synod Aids Programme (LISAP) has called for zero discrimination against people living with HIV. The theme for this year's Zero Discrimination Day is 'Save Lives: Decriminalize’, writes Wezzie Mwangonde.

The call was made on March 1st, Zero Discrimination Day, an annual observance.

LISAP, under the CCAP Synod of Livingstonia, is advocating for social inclusion and tolerance of people living with HIV.

While Malawi has created an enabling legal environment for people living with HIV and has not recorded any cases of criminalization based on HIV status, LISAP Executive Director, Jonathan Vumu, has urged the government to address the issues of deprivation and unequal access to social-economic opportunities that amount to discrimination.

Vumu has called on the government to resuscitate the economy, create policies that put HIV persons at an advantage in accessing social protection programs, and ensure uninterrupted access to antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) for all, including prisoners.

"Discrimination based on HIV status is multifaceted. We call for equal access to social-economic opportunities in order to end the vice," said Vumu.

The National Aids Commission Public Relations Officer, Karen Msiska, has stated that through the HIV/AIDS Prevention and Management Act, there are no issues of discrimination against people living with HIV in the country.

Msiska also stated that NAC continues to educate people about HIV/AIDS issues through campaigns such as World AIDS Day, the International AIDS Candle Light Memorial, and various media outlets.

LISAP, which exists to coordinate, mobilize, and empower communities to initiate and sustain HIV interventions through a holistic approach in six districts, namely Mzimba, Nkhatabay, Karonga, Rumphi, Chitipa, and Likoma, has a project in Mzimba District called 'Improving Parent and Child Outcome,' which aims to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission.

On this Zero Discrimination Day, LISAP's message is clear: discrimination against people living with HIV is unacceptable, and everyone should have equal access to social-economic opportunities.