Breaking Barriers: HSCL ACE 3 HIV Awareness and Testing Gains Ground in Gusau
In Gusau, Zamfara State, deep-rooted stigma, low awareness, and limited access to confidential testing have long hindered the fight against HIV. Many people living with HIV remained undiagnosed This is often due to fear of judgment, lack of trust in health facilities, long distances to testing centers, financial constraints, insecurity, and cultural or religious perceptions. As a result, traditional facility-based testing was underused, with many clients only seeking help after developing serious complications.
To bridge this gap, the USAID-funded ACE3 Project, through PEPFAR, introduced two innovative, client-centered approaches: Index Client Testing (ICT) and Voluntary HIV Self-Testing (HIVST). These strategies bring testing closer to people, empowering individuals to test privately while encouraging the safe referral of sexual partners and biological children of people living with HIV.
How It Works
- Index Client Testing: Healthcare workers and case managers identify and counsel sexual partners and biological children of people living with HIV for testing.
- Voluntary Self-Testing: Individuals receive HIV self-test kits, often through health facilities, community-based organizations (CBOs), and outreach programs, with clear guidance on use and linkage to care.
In Zamfara, where community acceptance is shaped by religious and cultural norms, the program engaged traditional and religious leaders to reduce stigma and promote testing. Education was delivered in Hausa, highlighting Islamic values around health and family well-being. Female-friendly channels such as women’s groups and targeted outreach ensured women could access testing confidentially.
Impact at a Glance
I was afraid to visit the clinic, but testing myself at home gave me confidence and hope for my family’s future.
Another case involved a young man who tested positive using a kit provided by his cousin. Initially reluctant to seek care, he changed his mind after being assured of confidentiality leading both him and his partner to start treatment.
Community Ownership is Key
The program’s success rests on cultural sensitivity, confidentiality, and active community involvement. Religious leaders now play an active role in promoting HIV awareness, while established tracking and follow-up systems ensure no one is left behind.
Looking ahead, community members, particularly discordant couples are advocating for access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to further protect partners who are HIV-negative.
By combining trust, local engagement, and innovative approaches, Gusau’s HIV response is breaking barriers. What was once unspoken is now openly addressed, moving Zamfara closer to epidemic control.