The National HIV/AIDS Secretariat has kicked off a 4-day event to commemorate the International Condom day in Makeni, Bombali District. On the 11th January 2023, the Secretariat opened the event with a football competition for both male and female to raise awareness and sensitization on the usage of Condoms and their relevance.
Every year on 14th February, Condom Day is commemorated globally to raise awareness on the prevention of HIV/AIDS. The Secretariat in collaboration with Care Sierra Leone, AHF, UNFPA, UNAIDS, Jhpiego, PPASL and KFW supported this year’s commemoration.
During the 4-Day event which includes football matches, a marathon, and a beauty pageant show, experts will talk about safe sex, sexually transmitted diseases and timely pregnancy.
The Minister of Youths Mr. Mohamed Oman Bangura was also in attendance to spread the message of safe sex to the youths. The Minister advised youths not to shy away from sex education as it is important for their well-being and growth.
According to the Director General of the National HIV/AIDS Secretariat Mr. Abdul Rahman C. Sesay, the HIV/AIDs virus is prevalent among young people in Sierra Leone so it is imperative that, the youths are targeted to educate them about the danger of unsafe sex and why they must use condom. “This year, we focus on the youths that is why you can see the activities are centered on youths to capture their attention to the risks involve in unprotected sex which normally leads to contracting STDs and acquiring unwanted pregnancy. So this year, we are commemorating the ICD to create awareness” said Director Sesay.
The Country Program Manager of Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF), Mrs. Miatta J. Kaisamba called on youths to be tested and not be afraid. He encouraged youths to know their status and that, it is confidential. Free testing boots were provided and hundreds of condoms were distributed.
Representatives of UNFPA, Care Sierra Leone, and KFW echoed similar message of safe sex through the use of condom.
Over the couple of days the Secretariat will engage thousands of youths across Makeni to raise awareness.
