AHF Launches Initiative to Enhance HIV, TB Reporting Among Journalists

In a bid to promote accurate and compassionate reporting on HIV and tuberculosis, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation Nigeria has introduced a media reporting project tailored for journalists. The initiative, which will run from September to October 2026, aims to equip participating journalists with the necessary skills and knowledge to produce human-centered stories that highlight the importance of testing, treatment, and public accountability in the fight against these diseases. According to Steve Aborisade, Senior Advocacy and Marketing Manager at AHF Nigeria, the project is designed to support journalists in seven states, including Abuja, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Cross River, Kogi, and Nasarawa, to produce stories that amplify the response to HIV and TB. Applications for the project are currently open and will close on August 31, 2026. Interested journalists can submit their applications through the designated form or via email to [email protected] with the subject line 'AHF HIV/TB Reporting Projects.' AHF Nigeria provides free HIV testing, treatment, care, and tuberculosis services across its seven states of operation. Despite progress made towards the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, challenges persist in areas such as TB reduction, stigma, and funding gaps. The project seeks to address these gaps by supporting journalists in producing accurate and stigma-free reports that center the voices of people living with HIV and TB survivors. At least seven journalists will be selected for the pilot edition, with each participant expected to develop and publish two in-depth feature or investigative stories during the two-month program. The selection process will be based on the strength of the story pitch, relevance of work samples, journalism experience, gender diversity, and editor support. AHF, the world's largest HIV/AIDS healthcare organization, provides care to over 2.9 million people across 50 countries. The organization believes that the media plays a crucial role in closing the gaps in the response to HIV and TB, and this project is designed to support journalists in producing high-quality reports that promote testing, treatment, and public accountability.