The Effects of HIV/AIDS on the Agricultural Sector in Enugu State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the effects of HIV/AIDS on the core development sector of agriculture in Enugu State, Nigeria, using field survey, desk study, and data analysis. The findings showed that HIV/AIDS had contributed to decreased farm output, scarcity of professionals, decreased work force, deterioration of health of citizens, reduced
household income, increased poverty, low productivity and malnutrition among the people. Disposal of family assets and deterioration of agricultural infrastructure are also other adverse effects in the state. Assessment of the degree of impact showed that reduced household income ranked first followed by increased poverty and decreased
workforce. It is recommended, among others, that the government, development partners and other agencies should promote access of target groups to treatment, prevention, care and support services with the strengthening of existing institutions/structures in the state. Capacity building/training of health professionals, peer health educators and counsellors is also considered crucial. In order to reduce poverty and vulnerability of citizens to HIV/AIDS, micro-credit support through
cooperatives and support groups of PLWHAs as well as skills training in income-generating activities are considered critical for the empowerment of the people. A holistic approach integrating all HIV/AIDS programmes is advocated for maximum impact in mitigating the scourge with the entrenchment of a functional monitoring and
evaluation system.