Kinshasa, September 19, 2024 – In the heart of the Limete commune in Kinshasa, an essential educational initiative took place at the “Matondo” primary school. About 400 students were made aware of Mpox during an intervention organized by the U-Report platform, a project supported by UNICEF.
This event was an opportunity for young students to learn the measures to take to protect themselves against the spread of this viral disease. Noella Sidney Mbombo, coordinator of the U-Report Kalamu platform, stressed the importance of raising awareness among young people on the essential actions to adopt to avoid infection by Mpox. Through interactive workshops, students learned how to wash their hands properly, identify the symptoms of the disease and protect themselves effectively.
Bénédicte Mbumba, deputy activities manager of the platform, stressed the importance of wearing a mask, hand hygiene and avoiding contact with animals that may be carrying the virus. She reminded students that symptoms of Mpox include headaches, spots on the body, persistent cough, fatigue and various pains. Faced with a circulating disease, prevention and awareness must be priorities for everyone’s health.
The head of the school committed to strengthening barrier measures within the school to protect the educational community against Mpox. He stressed the importance of collaboration between the school, families and local authorities to effectively combat the spread of the virus.
U-Report plays a key role in raising awareness among young citizens. By promoting social and political dialogue through surveys and field actions, this platform allows young people to express themselves, defend their rights and actively contribute to public life. U-Reporters thus become committed actors for the well-being of their community.
In conclusion, raising awareness among students at the “Matondo” primary school is a crucial step in the fight against Mpox. By informing and educating young people, we are investing in a better, healthier and more resilient future in the face of health challenges. Let us all be actors in prevention, solidarity and the protection of our collective health.