Heading: Campaign about the role of CSOs, key and vulnerable populations in reducing the new HIV infections and ensuring that people living with HIV have the same opportunities as all others.
World AIDS Day is global health day founded in 1988 observed each year on December 1 and it is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV, and remember those who have died. During 2020, the whole world celebrated it under the theme “Global Solidarity, Shared Responsibility” calling to Government, CSOs and other stakeholders to join hands together in fight against HIV/AIDS. Through our “CARE” Program, we are very committed to the World Agenda of fighting against HIV/AIDS through empowering the youth to create the next generation free from HIV/AIDS.
In partnership with Rwanda NGOs Forum, Medical Students Association of Rwanda, Community Health Boosters has participated in the pre-AIDs Day Celebration one week Campaign that aimed at highlighting the role of CSOs, key and vulnerable populations in reducing the new HIV infections and ensuring that people living with HIV have the same opportunities as all others. Due to Covid-19 prevention restrictive measures, this campaign was conducted mainly virtually via social media campaign, Radio and T.V shows and Communities by distributing condoms. The campaign paid more focus on raising awareness and reminding the Rwandan Community about HIV transmission prevention and control measures including, practicing protected and safe sex using the condom, voluntary testing, use of ARVs for the HIV positive people, proper disposal and handling of sharp objects, etc.
On Nov 25th, 2020 we were invited on Radio Rwanda to discuss about “The role of Young People in Preventing New HIV Infections”. The discussion paid more focus on the myths, misconceptions and behaviors around the adoption of HIV prevention measures and use of related services among the Rwandan Youth.
In addition, we have distributed more than 14,000 condoms in distinguished Campuses of University of Rwanda as one way of preventing new HIV infections among university students. It is by the youth’s interventions the world will achieve the future free from new HIV Infections. This way, more commitments, investments and solidarity are collectively needed to empower the youth through capacity building and integrating them into the agenda of fighting against new HIV infections through creating for them a space in decision making, HIV Policy and Strategic plans’ design.