By Dalitso Kampira
The Foundation for Community and Capacity Development (FOCCAD) has launched a health care project to empower adolescent girls and young women through provision of services that will help them prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections as well as early pregnancies in Thyolo district.
We want to reduce new STI infection and early pregnancies PIC Dalitso Kampira
FOCCAD District Project Coordinator, Victoria Malenga, said on Tuesday that among others, the project’s main goal is to reduce new infections among adolescent girls and young women.
“Among the services, we are encouraging the use of various protection methods, such as condoms and contraceptives, to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and early pregnancies among them.
“The project focuses on three key groups, such as school-going adolescents (both primary and secondary), sex workers, and individuals who inject drugs.
"We reach these target groups through peer leaders in one-on-one sessions, offering advice and guidance on health matters," said Malenga.
Malenga said through FOCCAD’s “Client, Community, and Clinic” network, young girls have greater access to youth-friendly health services whenever they feel the need.
One of the peer Leader, Alefa Chikotcha from Bvumbwe, shared how the project has positively impacted the adolescent girls in the area.
"FOCCAD has helped these girls understand their well-being and their role in accessing health services. They are now more aware on how to balance health and education, knowing they can receive support from youth-friendly services," she said.
Health Officer at Chimvu Clinic, Andrew Kholomana, described the project as a game-changer, saying previously, young girls were reluctant to seek health services, but now they are more open and confident when they visit the clinic.
"We thank FOCCAD for this project, because the adolescent girls no longer have to wait on a line when they need assistance, but they are treated promptly. This has significantly improved their access to health care,” said Kholomana.
FOCCAD is working with five health facilities in Thyolo district, including Bvumbwe Health Centre, Chimvu Clinic, Chipho, Thukuta, and Thekerani.
Comments