Uvira, September 18, 2024 (ACP) – An awareness campaign was conducted by the gender, family and child office of the city of Uvira, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, among approximately 50 female sex workers in the commune of Kalundu. The objective of this approach was to inform them about the risks of contamination linked to Mpox, a sexually transmitted disease.
Marie Mitila Ponga, Head of Office, underlines the importance of this initiative, highlighting the many dangers faced by people practicing this profession. Indeed, sex workers are often neglected in public health campaigns, despite their crucial role in the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.
The president of the sex workers, Mariamu Dada Hawa, expresses her gratitude to the local authorities for their support and calls for it to be strengthened. It highlights the urgent need for a preventive vaccine against Mpox to guarantee the safety of these workers and allow them to practice their profession without fear.
The event took place at the meeting room of the National AIDS Control Program (PNMLS) in Kimanga, with the support of the Red Cross. This intervention aims to inform and protect this category of women who are often vulnerable to this epidemic.
This awareness-raising action represents an important step in the management of the health and well-being of sex workers in Uvira. By highlighting the risks of Mpox contamination, it contributes to strengthening the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases within this community.
This initiative also highlights the importance of collaboration between local authorities, humanitarian organizations and civil society to meet the specific needs of vulnerable groups. By raising awareness and protecting sex workers, this campaign demonstrates the community’s commitment to supporting the health and well-being of all its members, without exclusion.