Fatshimetrie is a platform dedicated to raising awareness and fighting HIV/AIDS in Africa, particularly in the Central African Republic. As the world celebrates World HIV/AIDS Day on December 1st, it is crucial to highlight the challenges and efforts being made to counter the spread of this devastating disease, especially among Central African youth.
Statistics reveal an alarming prevalence of HIV/AIDS among young people in the Central African Republic, with a rate of 2.1% affecting approximately 180,000 people in the country. To counter this worrying trend, the National Committee for the Fight against AIDS (CNLS) is increasing awareness-raising initiatives through screening and education campaigns in schools, local communities and the most remote areas of Bangui.
Coordination between the CNLS and the network of people living with HIV/AIDS (RECAPEV) is essential to reach young people and provide them with accurate and up-to-date information on the prevention of sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS. Bienvenu Gazalima, an activist living with HIV/AIDS for two decades, emphasizes the importance of communication about the disease, especially in isolated regions where access to information remains limited.
In addition, the fight against HIV/AIDS in the Central African Republic is not limited to awareness raising. It is crucial to intensify efforts in terms of screening, treatment and access to antiretroviral drugs. The CNLS advocates for an increase in resources allocated to the fight against HIV/AIDS, in order to strengthen awareness-raising initiatives and patient care.
Furthermore, the adoption of a law on the rights of HIV-positive people in 2022 marks an important step in protecting and promoting the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS in the Central African Republic. This legislation aims to combat the stigma and discrimination that HIV-positive people often face, by guaranteeing their access to health care and promoting their fundamental rights.
In short, the fight against HIV/AIDS in the Central African Republic requires a holistic approach, combining awareness-raising, screening, treatment and protection of the rights of people living with the virus. Fatshimetrie is committed to continuing its awareness-raising actions and promoting better care for people affected by HIV/AIDS, in order to work together for a future without this devastating disease.