The National Program to Fight AIDS (PNLS) in Côte d'Ivoire, led by Essey Gabin, initiated a radio emission on September 28, 2026, at Radio Bagoué in Boundiali. The aim is to educate adolescents and young people in Boundiali about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS. This effort is part of a nationwide awareness campaign launched by the Ministry of Health, Public Hygiene, and Universal Health Coverage through PNLS.
The campaign targets adolescents and young people aged 15 to 24 in high-prevalence regions, including Bagoué. According to Essey Gabin, the goal is to inform this demographic about transmission modes and prevention methods for major infections, promote systematic condom use, and encourage more responsible behavior to reduce new contaminations. This initiative seeks to improve knowledge and competencies regarding STIs and HIV/AIDS.
Dr. Ouattara Mohamed, assistant to the STI service at PNLS, participated in the emission, reinforcing listeners' understanding of transmission modes, manifestations, and prevention methods for major infections. He commended the involvement of young leaders from U-Report, which will help disseminate low-risk behaviors among their peers. Dr. Mohamed encouraged the youth of Boundiali to utilize STI and HIV prevention and treatment services available at health centers.
The radio emission featured Fanny Léssignéré, a member of the U-Report community in Boundiali, and Dicko Abdoulaye, coordinator of the U-Report community in Boundiali and national coordinator adjoint of U-Report Côte d'Ivoire. The delegation team consisted of Essey Gabin, Dr. Ouattara Mohamed, and Atsé Franck, assistant to social mobilization at the Ivoirian Youth Network Against AIDS (RIJES).
This awareness campaign is crucial as HIV/AIDS remains incurable, but individuals infected can live longer with proper healthcare guidance and antiretroviral treatment (ARV). The PNLS team emphasized the importance of early detection, treatment, and prevention to mitigate the spread of STIs and HIV/AIDS among young people.
The radio emission serves as a platform for open discussion and education on sensitive topics, promoting a culture of awareness and responsibility. By engaging young leaders and community members, the PNLS aims to create a ripple effect, encouraging peers to adopt safer behaviors and seek medical help when needed.
The initiative demonstrates Côte d'Ivoire's commitment to addressing the STI and HIV/AIDS epidemic, particularly among vulnerable populations. By investing in education and awareness, the government and PNLS hope to reduce transmission rates and improve the overall health and well-being of young people in Boundiali and beyond.
Key points
- The PNLS initiative targets adolescents and young people aged 15 to 24 in high-prevalence regions.
- The campaign promotes systematic condom use and responsible behavior to reduce new STI and HIV contaminations.
- The radio emission features young leaders from U-Report to disseminate low-risk behaviors among their peers.
