Over three million youths to be reached in AIDS-free holiday campaign
The 21st edition of the AIDS-free holiday campaign in Cameroon has been launched in Yaounde, with focus on drugs and how vulnerable consumers can be to STIs and HIV/AIDS.
During the launching of activites at the headquarters of the African Synergy Against AIDS and Suffering, on Wednesday, August 2, the authorities, led by the Minister of Health Manaouda Malachie, indicated that over 650 trained peer educators will sensitize youths aged between 15 to 24 years, from all ten regions of the country.
The campaign will run from August 2 to 31, with activities including the distribution of sensitization material, educative talks, holding of online discussions to encourage screening against HIV, and orientation of seropositive persons.
Youths present during the opening ceremony in Yaounde, were encouraged to practice abstinence to preserve their sexual health and wellbeing. They were also advised to use contraceptives during sexual intercourse to prevent infection.
The AIDS-free holiday initiative introduced by the First Lady Chantal Biya in 2003, is meant to create awareness among youths on practices that could expose them to STIs and HIV/AIDS.
