TB-Network, one of the networks working on AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria (ATM), has profered a multifaceted approach in the fight against ATM and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Nigeria.

The Rivers State Coordinator of TB-Network, Mr. Messiah F. Muzan, who disclosed this recently in a media parley in Port Harcourt, said one of such approaches is to extend the National Health Insurance programme to the poor and most vulnerable in Nigeria.

“The National Health Insurance programme enjoyed by the formal sector should be extended to other citizens of Nigeria, particularly the poor and most vulnerable “, he said.

He explained that this is because the poor are often less educated and unemployed, and consequently lack the ability to pay out-of-pocket for high costs associated with frequent illnesses.

Muzan listed other approaches to include: funding and finances for Primary Health delivery should be carefully mapped out and sanctioned against any misappropriation or mismanagement, to enable a robust public health programme at all Ward levels in the local government; communication and education programmes can raise knowledge and awareness, and, in turn, improve testing and care-seeking.

“There is a great need to educate, engage, and empower the communities to embrace any behaviour change relevant to achieving success in malaria, HIV, and TB control in Nigeria”, he explained.

Others are: “Every word should commit to health promotion and education programmes to increase awareness of prevention measures; and promote community participation and adherence to evidence-based strategies.

“Commmit adequate resources through advocacy and partnerships, for the full and effective implementation of all planned interventions, including through involvement of the private sector, community participatory approaches.

“Community members should actively support and advocate for their local Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs). Community involvement is crucial in ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of these centers.

“Additionally, community support can manifest through volunteering, donating resources, or participating in advocacy efforts to secure increased funding and resources for PHCs”, he stated.

The TB-Network boss identified the manifestions of GBV to include domestic abuse, verbal aggression, physical violence, rape, early marriages, incest, Female Genital Cutting (FGC), acid attacks, and outright killing.

He also disclosed that the COVID 19 Response Mechanism/RSSH aimed at intervening in various facets of GBV-related issues being implemented in Rivers State has recorded a lot of successes in general terms, among which is the part directly played by TB-Network.

According to him, “TB-Network in their bid to tackle the menace of GBV, has achieved enormous success through community outreaches to sensitise the communities’ members on the subject matter, the effect and consequences on perpetrators and survivors.

“With the help of our valuable state partners, like the state response team, Ministry of Health, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corp (NSCDC), Police, FIDA, National Human Rights Commission, Rivers State Agency for the Control of AIDS (RIVSACA), and Ministry of Justice, we are able to legally fight this ill that is eating into the fabrics of our dear Rivers State.

“Currently, TB-Network is advocating for justice for two survivors of GBV cases in the State.”

Muzan concluded that addressing the issues of ATM and GBV requires robust action: “Strengthening infrastructure, securing financial resources, renewing political leadership, and fostering collaborationa are essential.

“Evidence-based interventions, such as community-led monitoring, should be scaled-up.

“Additionally, innovative services delivery models and technological adaptations are critical to minimise disruptions to routine care.”

Soibi Max-Alalibo