AWEC

World AIDS Day & 16 Days of Activism Against GBV

As we observe World AIDS Day 2025, under the global theme “ *Ending Inequalities, Ending AIDS* ”, AWEC, in partnership with Action Network Foundation, Sister Empowerment Foundation, and Hadassah Foundation, carried out an HIV and syphilis sensitization and screening outreach at the University of Buea Parish. The activity aimed to educate students on HIV, AIDS, and syphilis, promote early testing, and provide prevention tools to reduce the spread of these infections among young people.

Over 100 students actively participated in the session. They were empowered with critical knowledge, received confidential testing with immediate results, and were provided with condoms as part of preventive health measures. The initiative emphasized the importance of access to health information, stigma reduction, and informed decision making, particularly among the youth population.

This activity also aligns with the ongoing 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, themed “ *Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls”* , highlighting the intersection between sexual health, protection, and empowerment. By combining awareness, testing, and preventive measures, the outreach reinforces the message that health, safety, and human rights are inseparable and must be promoted collectively.

AWEC and its partners remain committed to advancing youth health, promoting gender equality, and creating safe and informed communities through continuous engagement and impactful interventions.

Girls around the world are rising above the barriers that have long held them back.

From being denied an education to facing early or forced marriage and gender-based violence, they refuse to be defined by limitations.

With courage, determination, and unshakable spirit, they are breaking stereotypes, pursuing their dreams, and claiming the future they deserve—proving that when girls are empowered, the world is transformed.

On Saturday's Day of the Girl and every day, join in standing with girls as they take charge of their futures.

Reach out, listen and seek help!

Su***de can be prevented!

Don't take your life.

Help is available!