MIHRE Commemorates the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking

On 26 June 2026, Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE), with the support of Heartland Alliance Ltd/Gte through the ViiV Healthcare Positive Action Project, joined the global community in commemorating the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking under the theme: “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”
The commemoration reaffirmed MIHRE’s commitment to promoting evidence-based harm reduction, advancing human rights, and advocating for gender-responsive approaches that improve the health and wellbeing of women who use drugs.

Activities began with a community awareness road walk designed to engage the public on the importance of drug abuse prevention, harm reduction, healthy lifestyles, and equitable access to healthcare services. Through advocacy messages promoting dignity, inclusion, and compassion, the campaign encouraged community members to rethink punitive responses to drug use and support health-centred interventions that protect lives and uphold human rights.

The event also created a safe and inclusive platform for dialogue, bringing together Women Who Use and Inject Drugs (WWUIDs), healthcare professionals, a psychologist, project partners, and the MIHRE team. Participants engaged in interactive sessions on harm reduction, mental health, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), gender-based violence, HIV prevention, and the importance of accessing healthcare and psychosocial support without fear of stigma or discrimination.

The discussions emphasized that drug dependence should be addressed through prevention, treatment, care, and social support rather than punishment. Participants were encouraged to adopt positive health-seeking behaviors, understand their rights, and become advocates for harm reduction, gender equality, and access to quality healthcare within their communities.

As an organization, MIHRE remains committed to ensuring that women who use drugs are not left behind.

Through strategic partnerships and community-led interventions, we will continue to advocate for policies and programmes that promote dignity, reduce stigma, expand access to healthcare, and create safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities.
Together, we reaffirm our commitment to a future where support not punishment remains the foundation of our response to drug use.

MIHRE Champions Health, Human Rights, and Dignity for Women Who Use Drugs During the 2026 Support Don’t Punish Global Day of Action
On 26 June 2026, the Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE) joined advocates, community organisations, and civil society actors across the globe to commemorate the Support Don’t Punish (SDP) Global Day of Action, with support from the Women and Harm Reduction International Network (WHRIN). The campaign reinforced the growing global movement calling for drug policies that prioritise health, human rights, gender equality, and harm reduction over punishment and criminalisation, particularly for women and gender-diverse people who use drugs.

Held in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, the campaign provided a powerful platform to amplify the voices of women who use drugs, challenge harmful stereotypes, and promote evidence-based, gender-responsive approaches to drug policy and service delivery. It also sought to increase public understanding of harm reduction, advocate for health-centred responses to drug use, reduce stigma, discrimination and gender-based violence, improve access to healthcare, psychosocial support, sexual and reproductive health services, and legal protection, while strengthening solidarity among women with lived experiences.

The event brought together 16 women who use drugs, healthcare professionals, a clinical psychologist, and the MIHRE team in a safe and inclusive environment designed to promote dialogue, learning, empowerment, and collective action.

The day began with a vibrant community solidarity walk through the streets of Uyo. Participants marched peacefully with placards carrying bold advocacy messages that promoted dignity, inclusion, harm reduction, and the protection of the rights of women who use drugs. Accompanied by music and community engagement, the rally attracted widespread public attention, sparking meaningful conversations with residents and passers-by about the urgent need to replace punitive drug policies with compassionate, evidence-based responses rooted in public health and human rights.
The solidarity walk concluded at a designated safe hotspot, where participants gathered for a series of interactive learning and empowerment sessions. Before the programme commenced, participants voluntarily signed informed consent forms, reaffirming MIHRE’s commitment to ethical standards and meaningful participation.

In her opening remarks, the Executive Director of MIHRE welcomed participants and reaffirmed the organisation’s unwavering commitment to protecting the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of women who use drugs. She stressed that access to healthcare, protection from violence, and respect for human dignity are fundamental human rights that should never be denied because of drug use. She further highlighted the importance of community-led advocacy and the meaningful involvement of women who use drugs in shaping policies and programmes that directly affect their lives.
Participants engaged in an in-depth session on harm reduction, exploring its core principles, proven public health benefits, and the importance of shifting from punitive approaches towards policies that prioritise health, safety, and human rights. Discussions reinforced that harm reduction is a practical, evidence-based strategy that saves lives, reduces health risks, and promotes social inclusion.

Another key session focused on violence against women who use drugs, examining the different forms of violence and discrimination they often experience. Participants were introduced to the provisions of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, available reporting mechanisms, and survivor-centred support services that can help women seek justice and protection.

Recognising the importance of mental wellbeing, a clinical psychologist facilitated a session on mental health and psychosocial support, exploring the complex relationship between trauma, stigma, discrimination, and drug use. Participants discussed practical coping mechanisms, resilience-building strategies, and the importance of seeking psychosocial support without fear of judgment or discrimination.

The programme concluded with an engaging session on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), where participants received information on routine health screenings, family planning, and available healthcare services. Facilitators emphasised that women who use drugs deserve equitable access to quality healthcare and social services free from stigma, discrimination, and exclusion.

Throughout the campaign, participants were encouraged to utilise available harm reduction and SRHR services, report incidents of violence, prioritise regular health checks, and continue strengthening the peer-led support networks established within their communities.
Beyond raising awareness, the campaign created a safe and non-judgmental space where women openly shared their lived experiences, built confidence, strengthened solidarity, and renewed their commitment to advocating for their health and human rights. The public engagement generated during the solidarity walk also contributed to challenging widespread misconceptions about women who use drugs and promoting greater community understanding of harm reduction.

The 2026 Support Don’t Punish Global Day of Action once again demonstrated MIHRE’s unwavering commitment to advancing gender-responsive harm reduction, protecting the health and human rights of women who use drugs, and promoting compassionate, evidence-informed, and rights-based responses to drug use.
MIHRE extends its sincere appreciation to the Women and Harm Reduction International Network (WHRIN) for supporting this important initiative. Through this partnership, community voices were amplified, solidarity was strengthened, and another significant step was taken towards a future where every person who uses drugs is treated with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Support. Don’t Punish. Because healthcare saves lives, human rights protect lives, and dignity belongs to everyone.
#SupportDontPunish #SDP2026 #HarmReduction #WomenWhoUseDrugs #HumanRights #HealthNotPunishment #EndStigma #GenderEquality #MIHRE #WHRINetwork

Akwa Ibom State Records Historic Milestone in HIV Prevention

Akwa Ibom State has achieved a significant milestone in the fight against HIV with the official launch of Lenacapavir (LEN PrEP), a groundbreaking long-acting injectable medication for HIV prevention. The historic flag-off ceremony was held at the Primary Health Care Operational Base (PHC OP Base), Barracks Road, Uyo, bringing together government officials, healthcare professionals, development partners, civil society organizations, and community representatives dedicated to strengthening HIV prevention efforts across the state.

The launch marks a transformative moment in public health, positioning Akwa Ibom State among the leaders advancing innovative HIV prevention solutions in Nigeria.

The Executive Director of the Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE), Uduak Nyaetok, was represented at the event, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare services and evidence-based HIV prevention interventions.

MIHRE continues to advocate for vulnerable and underserved populations, particularly women who use and inject drugs, ensuring they have access to lifesaving healthcare services and prevention options.

Lenacapavir represents a new generation of HIV prevention tools. Unlike traditional daily HIV prevention medications, LEN PrEP is a long-acting injectable option designed to provide highly effective protection while reducing many of the challenges associated with daily adherence.

The introduction of LEN PrEP offers individuals at substantial risk of HIV infection a convenient and innovative prevention choice that can significantly contribute to reducing new HIV infections and improving public health outcomes.

The successful introduction of LEN PrEP reflects the collaborative efforts of the Akwa Ibom State Government, healthcare providers, development partners, civil society organizations, and communities working together toward the shared goal of ending HIV as a public health threat.

MIHRE commends all stakeholders whose dedication, leadership, and partnership made this historic achievement possible.

Facilities Currently Providing LEN PrEP Services in Akwa Ibom State

LEN PrEP services are currently available at the following health facilities:

• Primary Health Center Operational Base, Uyo
• University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH)
• General Hospital, Ikot Ekpene
• General Hospital, Iquita Oron
• Primary Health Center, Mbo
• Heartland Alliance One Stop Shop, Uyo
• Imaobong Missionary Hospital, Ibesikpo
• Immanuel General Hospital, Eket
• Primary Health Center, Ikot Ebok, Eket

As Akwa Ibom State continues to lead in HIV prevention innovation, the launch of LEN PrEP brings renewed hope for stronger communities, improved health outcomes, and a future where everyone has access to the healthcare services and prevention tools they need to thrive.

By expanding access to cutting-edge HIV prevention options, Akwa Ibom State is taking another important step toward reducing new HIV infections and building an HIV-free generation.

The Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE) is committed to advancing health equity, promoting human rights, and improving access to quality healthcare services for vulnerable and marginalized populations through evidence-based interventions and strategic partnerships.  Lenacapavir, LEN PrEP, HIV Prevention, Akwa Ibom State, Uyo, HIV Services Nigeria, Public Health, HIV-Free Generation, MIHRE, Long-Acting Injectable PrEP, Healthcare Innovation, HIV Prevention Nigeria.

#LenacapavirLaunch
#LENPrEP
#HIVPrevention
#EndHIV
#AkwaIbomState
#Uyo,   #ViiVhealthcare
#HIVFreeGeneration
#PublicHealth
#HealthcareInnovation
#PrEPWorks
#HealthForAll
#CommunityHealth
#MIHRE  ,      #HALG

WORLD MENSTRUAL HYGIENE DAY 2026

Yesterday, Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment proudly commemorated World Menstrual Hygiene Day through a targeted outreach focused exclusively on female drug users within our communities.

This initiative reflects our commitment to promoting health, dignity, inclusion, and human rights for women who are often excluded from mainstream healthcare services due to stigma, substance use, and social marginalization.

Supporting Menstrual Health Among Female Drug Users

As part of the commemoration, sanitary pads and condoms were distributed to support menstrual hygiene management and sexual and reproductive health among female drug users.

We also provided education on proper menstrual hygiene practices, menstrual cycle tracking and calculation, and overall reproductive health awareness. These sessions were designed to equip participants with practical knowledge to improve their health, dignity, and wellbeing.

In addition, awareness was created on HIV prevention, including information on the use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as an effective tool for reducing the risk of HIV transmission.

Reaching a Highly Vulnerable Population

Female drug users remain one of the most marginalized and underserved groups in society. Many face stigma, discrimination, poverty, violence, unstable living conditions, and limited access to essential healthcare services.

Through this outreach, Milestone Initiative reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that female drug users are not excluded from menstrual health education, hygiene support, and HIV prevention services.

Menstrual Health Is a Human Right

Menstrual health is not a privilege—it is a fundamental human right. Every woman deserves access to safe menstrual hygiene products, accurate information, and a supportive environment that promotes dignity and wellbeing, regardless of her circumstances.

Building Dignity, Health, and Inclusion

Through continuous education, outreach, and distribution of essential health commodities, we aim to empower female drug users to make informed decisions about their health and future.

Together, we are breaking stigma, restoring dignity, and building healthier, more inclusive communities where even the most vulnerable women are supported and not left behind.

Health. Dignity. Equality. Empowerment.

#WorldMenstrualHygieneDay
#PeriodFriendlyWorld
#MenstrualHealth
#MenstrualHygiene
#EndPeriodStigma
#HIVPrevention
#PrEPAwareness
#WomenEmpowerment
#CommunityImpact
#MilestoneInitiative
#HealthForAll

Milestone Initiative Commemorates International Day of Action for Women’s Health

Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment proudly commemorated the International Day of Action for Women’s Health, reaffirming our commitment to promoting women’s health rights, dignity, equality, and access to essential healthcare services for all women and girls.

The International Day of Action for Women’s Health serves as a global reminder that women’s health is a fundamental human right, not a privilege reserved for a few. It highlights the need for governments, organizations, communities, and stakeholders to address the barriers that prevent many women from accessing quality healthcare, mental health support, reproductive health services, protection, and opportunities for personal development.

Why the International Day of Action for Women’s Health Matters

Despite progress in many areas, millions of women and girls around the world continue to face significant challenges in accessing healthcare and support services. Vulnerable populations, including women affected by substance abuse, addiction, poverty, violence, discrimination, and social exclusion, often experience even greater barriers to receiving the care they need.

Many female drug users face stigma and judgment instead of support and rehabilitation. These barriers can prevent women from seeking healthcare, mental health services, counseling, and recovery programs that could improve their quality of life and overall wellbeing.

The International Day of Action for Women’s Health provides an opportunity to advocate for inclusive healthcare systems that leave no woman behind.

Promoting Women’s Health, Dignity, and Inclusion

At Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment, we believe that every woman deserves access to healthcare, recovery support, protection, education, and opportunities to rebuild her life with dignity.

Women’s health extends beyond medical treatment. It encompasses physical wellbeing, mental health, emotional resilience, personal safety, reproductive health, and the ability to make informed decisions about one’s future.

When women have access to quality healthcare services and support systems, they are better positioned to contribute to their families, communities, and society as a whole.

Our Call for Action

As part of this commemoration, Milestone Initiative continues to advocate for:

• Equal access to healthcare services for all women and girls
• Improved mental health awareness and support
• Compassionate care and rehabilitation services for women affected by substance abuse
• Protection from stigma, discrimination, abuse, and violence
• Sexual and reproductive health rights
• Women’s empowerment through education, advocacy, and inclusion
• Community-based support systems that promote recovery and wellbeing

Supporting Women Who Use Drugs

Our work is dedicated to supporting women who use drugs, many of whom face multiple and overlapping challenges, including stigma, discrimination, social exclusion, poverty, violence, and mental health concerns. These barriers often limit their access to healthcare, treatment, social support, and opportunities for recovery and empowerment.

At Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment, we recognize that women who use drugs deserve compassion, respect, and access to quality healthcare without fear of judgment or discrimination. We believe that effective support must be grounded in dignity, human rights, education, advocacy, and access to comprehensive health and social services.

No woman should be denied healthcare, protection, or opportunities because of her drug use or life circumstances. Every woman deserves to be treated with dignity, supported in making informed decisions about her health, and given the opportunity to improve her wellbeing and reach her full potential.

By promoting inclusion, reducing stigma, and expanding access to essential services, we can help ensure that women who use drugs are not left behind and are empowered to lead healthier, safer, and more fulfilling lives.

Building a Healthier Future for Women

The International Day of Action for Women’s Health reminds us that achieving health equity requires collective action. Governments, civil society organizations, healthcare providers, community leaders, and individuals all have a role to play in creating a world where women can access the care and support they need.

Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment remains committed to advancing women’s health rights, promoting mental health awareness, supporting recovery and rehabilitation, and advocating for policies and programs that empower women and girls.

Together, we can build healthier communities, reduce stigma, expand access to healthcare, and create a more inclusive society where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.

Health. Dignity. Equality. Empowerment.

#InternationalDayOfActionForWomensHealth
#WomensHealth
#WomenEmpowerment
#HealthForAll
#MentalHealthAwareness
#SupportWomen
#EndStigma
#WomenAndRecovery
#HumanRights
#HealthyWomenHealthyWorld
#MilestoneInitiative
#WomenHealthRights
#DrugRecoverySupport
#EndHealthInequality
#HALG
#ViiVHealthcare

Drug Abuse Among Women: Understanding the Link Between Mental Health, Stigma, and Recovery

Drug abuse among women is a growing public health and social concern that often remains hidden behind silence, stigma, and misunderstanding. Behind every woman struggling with substance abuse is a story the world may never fully see a story of pain, rejection, depression, pressure, loneliness, trauma, and silent battles hidden behind forced smiles.

The Connection Between Drug Abuse and Mental Health

Drug abuse among women is not merely a personal struggle. It is often closely linked to mental health challenges, emotional wounds, traumatic experiences, and the need for support, healing, and compassion rather than judgment or discrimination.

Many women face significant challenges, including:

• Anxiety and depression
• Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
• Family and relationship difficulties
• Social and economic pressures
• Isolation and loneliness
• Feelings of hopelessness and low self-worth

Without adequate support, some women may turn to substance use as a coping mechanism, further affecting their mental and physical wellbeing.

Why Women Suffer in Silence

Many women struggling with drug abuse avoid seeking help because they fear stigma, shame, rejection, or discrimination. Society often judges women more harshly, creating barriers that prevent them from accessing treatment and recovery services.

Creating safe and supportive environments is essential to ensuring that women can seek help without fear and begin their journey toward recovery.

Recovery Is Possible

Recovery is possible.

Healing is possible.

Hope is possible.

With access to proper mental health care, counseling, rehabilitation services, family support, and community acceptance, women can overcome addiction and rebuild their lives.

Every woman deserves:

• A second chance
• Access to quality mental health support
• Compassion and understanding
• Opportunities for personal growth
• A life of dignity, purpose, and hope

Breaking the Stigma Around Drug Abuse Among Women

Addressing drug abuse among women requires more than treatment alone. It requires public awareness, education, advocacy, and a commitment to reducing the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health.

Communities, families, healthcare providers, and organizations all have a role to play in supporting women on their recovery journey.

Our Commitment

At Milestone Initiative for Human Rights & Empowerment, we remain committed to raising awareness about drug abuse among women, supporting recovery efforts, advocating for mental health services, and restoring hope to women whose voices are too often unheard.

Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, we strive to create a society where women can access support without fear of judgment and where recovery is celebrated rather than stigmatized.

Together, we can break the stigma, inspire healing, support recovery, and save lives.

Health. Dignity. Hope. Empowerment.

MIHRE commemorated the International Harm Reduction Day on 7th May 2026 under the theme “CARE.”

This moment was more than a commemoration; it reflected our personal and collective journeys within MIHRE. We sincerely recognised and appreciated the invaluable role of Heartland Alliance LTE/GTE (HALG) in shaping our transformation. Through consistent technical support, mentorship, and capacity strengthening, HALG walked with us beyond programming, supporting our transition from lived experiences of drug dependency into a structured journey of behavioural change, healing, and harm reduction leadership. Their support strengthened our confidence to stand as community champions, using our lived realities as a foundation for advocacy, empathy, and service to others.

This commemoration promoted a health- and rights-based response to drug use, one that prioritises compassion, dignity, autonomy, and evidence-based interventions. It reinforced our commitment as a team to embed these principles at the centre of our work, ensuring that every response to drug use is grounded in humanity, inclusion, and public health rather than stigma or punishment.

The activity also created a powerful reflective space for us at MIHRE, many of whom have experienced drug dependency and are now actively walking the path of harm reduction. Through placard messages and shared reflections, we expressed our journeys of resilience, recovery, and transformation. These moments reminded us that our stories are not limitations, but powerful tools for change, connection, and community healing.

This experience reaffirmed a strong truth for us: meaningful change is possible when people are met with understanding, respect, and opportunities for care rather than exclusion, stigma, and discrimination. It also deepened our belief in harm reduction approaches that reduce health risks, prevent overdose, improve service uptake, and promote safer practices among women who use and inject drugs.

Overall, the commemoration strengthened our collective commitment to continue advancing inclusive, compassionate, and evidence-informed responses that protect lives, promote wellbeing, and uphold the dignity and rights of women who use and inject drugs through the ViiV Healthcare Positive Action Project, while deeply acknowledging HALG’s critical role in supporting our journey of transformation.

#InternationalHarmReductionDay #HarmReduction #EndStigma #WomenWhoUseDrugs #CommunityHealth #OverdosePrevention #SRHR #HealthForAll #MIHRE #HumanRights #RecoveryAndHope #SupportNotStigma #MentalHealthAwareness #DrugAbusePrevention #CommunityCare #MilestoneInitiative #TogetherWeCan #ViiVHealthcare #HALG

REFINING THE REFINER: STRENGTHENING PURPOSE AND CREATIVITY WITHIN MIHRE
At Milestone Initiative for Human Rights & Empowerment (MIHRE), our work is driven by more than passion, it is guided by commitment, intentionality, and a shared sense of purpose. Every day, our team works to reach the vulnerable women within our communities, advocate for dignity, and ensure that no one is left behind.
Yet, in the midst of this work, we recognize an important truth, organizations committed to transforming lives must also remain committed to transforming themselves.
In commemoration of World Creativity and Innovation Day, we made a deliberate choice to pause. Rather than directing our focus outward as we often do (Community), we turned inward, to reflect, reconnect, and creating a futuristic vision on a designed idea tree expected to strengthen and drives our work in MIHRE.
It was a moment to remind ourselves that even the refiner must take time to be refined.
One of the most meaningful highlights of the day was the creation of MIHRE Idea Tree. Each team member contributed ideas written on colorful notes, insights, solutions, aspirations, and bold possibilities for strengthening our programs and deepening our impact.
As the tree grows, it becomes a powerful symbol of the organization’s strength, displaying diverse ideas united by a shared mission.
The space was filled with thoughtful dialogue, reflection, laughter, and creativity. More importantly, it reinforced something fundamental about all team journey and the way we work at MIHRE. innovation is not accidental, it is cultivated intentionally by people who are committed to learning, improving, and evolving together.
Moments like this remind us that before we transform communities, we must continue to challenge ourselves, sharpen our thinking, and strengthen the purpose that guides our actions.
The ideas shared during this session will not remain on paper. They will inform new strategies, strengthen our programs, and inspire innovative approaches that expand the impact we create in the communities we serve.
At MIHRE, innovation is not simply a concept we celebrate, it is a discipline we practice.
Because when purpose-driven people come together with clarity, commitment, and intention, ideas become action and action becomes lasting change.

#WorldCreativityAndInnovationDay
#MIHREImpact
#PurposeDrivenWork
#InnovationForChange
#IdeasThatGrow#TeamReflection
#StrongerTogether                                                                                                                                                                                                           #viiv

#WorldHealthDay #HealthForAll #MIHRE #CommunityImpact #WorldHealthDay2026 #StandWithScience #HealthForAll #CommunityHealth #HealthcareAccess #HealthEquity #HarmReduction #PeopleWhoUseDrugs #EndStigma #HIVPrevention #PrEPWorks #HumanRightsInHealth #LeaveNoOneBehind #MIHRE #CommunityImpact, #viivHealthcare  #HALG