By Reporter J
The National Public Health Agency (NPHA) has launched a major HIV prevention and awareness campaign targeting more than 12,000 young people across Freetown, as part of intensified efforts to curb the spread of HIV among adolescents and youth.
The campaign, which is being rolled out in schools, communities, marketplaces, and youth centers, focuses on HIV education, prevention, testing, and stigma reduction. According to NPHA officials, young people between the ages of 15 and 35 remain among the most vulnerable groups due to limited access to accurate information, peer pressure, and risky sexual behaviors.
Speaking at the launch of the initiative, an NPHA representative said the program aims to empower young people with correct knowledge about HIV transmission, prevention methods, and the importance of regular testing. Free HIV testing and counseling services are also being provided during outreach activities, alongside the distribution of condoms and educational materials.
The campaign involves collaboration with youth-led organizations, community health workers, schools, and religious leaders to ensure wide coverage and sustainability. Interactive sessions, drama performances, and peer-to-peer discussions are being used to engage young people in a relatable and impactful way.
NPHA emphasized that ending HIV requires collective action and youth participation. The agency called on parents, community leaders, and stakeholders to support the initiative, noting that informed and empowered youth are key to reducing new HIV infections and building a healthier future for Sierra Leone.
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