FREE HEALTH INSURANCE FOR PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV, TB IN ANAMBRA STATE
By Chisom Okafor
A major milestone in the fight against HIV and tuberculosis was recorded recently in Anambra State, as the Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) hosted a high-level stakeholders’ meeting to discuss the implementation of a Global Fund-supported initiative offering free health insurance to persons living with HIV and TB.
The meeting, held in Awka, brought together a cross-section of key actors in the healthcare sector, including the Hon. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike; the Managing Director of ASHIA, Dr. Simeon Onyemaechi; representatives of the Global Fund; the World Health Organization (WHO); and the State Program Manager (SPM), others.
In his address, Dr. Obidike emphasized that the state government remains fully committed to breaking barriers to healthcare access for vulnerable populations. He described the initiative as a bold step toward equity in health service delivery and urged stakeholders to use the opportunity to brainstorm effective, people-centered solutions.
Speaking on the current status and hurdles of the project, Dr. Onyemaechi highlighted several challenges ASHIA is facing with the registration and enrollment process. Chief among them, he said, is the need to eliminate stigma associated with HIV and TB, which often discourages affected individuals from coming forward. He stressed the importance of a community-driven, stigma-free enrollment process, adding that awareness creation remains a top priority.
“We want to assure all beneficiaries that this program is completely free, transparent, and easy to access. Our goal is to ensure that no eligible person is left out because of fear, shame, or bureaucracy.”
Dr. Onyemaechi also noted that while the National Identification Number (NIN) is a requirement for registration, ASHIA is working with relevant authorities to simplify the documentation process and avoid unnecessary delays.
The meeting also featured contributions from representatives of the Global Fund and WHO, who echoed the importance of strong collaboration among partners. According to them, for the program to achieve its goals, health workers at the grassroots level must be adequately trained, and community gatekeepers must be actively involved to build trust.
Other recommendations that emerged during the session include the deployment of mobile registration teams to rural areas, integration of psychosocial support for enrollees, and regular monitoring to ensure service quality.
The free health insurance initiative is expected to significantly reduce the financial burden of accessing healthcare among people living with HIV and TB, while also encouraging early detection, adherence to treatment, and long-term wellness.
As the meeting concluded, stakeholders agreed to convene again in the coming weeks to review progress, assess enrollment figures, and fine-tune outreach strategies. The general consensus was clear: the success of the program rests not only on policies but also on the shared commitment to building a healthier and more inclusive Anambra State.
*Chisom is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State*.
More photos below.
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