As Malawi today joins the rest of the world in commemorating World Aids Day, a Chikwawa based organization, Community Focus (COFO), is celebrating a significant milestone in its fight against HIV/AIDS.
Through its innovative projects, COFO says it has managed to reach dozens of youths with messages on how they can prevent themselves from contracting the virus.
At the forefront of COFO’s efforts is the “Her Goal Her Power” project, an HIV/AIDS special campaign which has been reaching hundreds of youths with HIV related messages.
The organization’s executive director Joshua Malunga says what makes the project unique is its approach.
“We are using football to bring girls together and teach them about HIV,” Malunga explained.
He said through the initiative, girls and boys are not only learning about HIV prevention, but they are also having fun playing football.
“The project’s impact has been significant, with many girls in Chikwawa now empowered with knowledge to protect themselves from contracting HIV,” Said Malunga.
Currently, over 600 girls and boys are benefiting from the project which was launched in September this year and is being supported by the GIZ and the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA).
Sexual and reproductive health expert, Mercy Kaliati has hailed COFO for coming up with what she described as an innovative way of dealing with the threat of HIV.
“As the world marks World Aids Day, COFO’s innovative approach serves as a reminder that the fight against HIV/AIDS requires creative and effective solutions,” said Kaliati.
This year, the day was commemorated under the theme; Take the rights path: My health, my right, to emphasize the importance of healthcare access and the empowerment of individuals in managing their health.
