Côte d'Ivoire NGO Promotes Health and Road Safety Awareness in Nafoun

The Organisation non gouvernementale Interafricaine pour la promotion de la santé et des droits humains (ONG IPSDH) recently organized an awareness session in Nafoun, Korhogo department, Côte d'Ivoire. The session, which took place on November 13, 2026, focused on sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV/AIDS, gender-based violence, and road safety. This activity is part of the social accompaniment actions of the lot 4 of the Project for Inclusive Connectivity and Rural Infrastructure in Côte d'Ivoire (PCR-CI).

The PCR-CI project is co-financed by the World Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The session was attended by local authorities, including the sous-préfet of Nafoun, Dodo Guehi Achille, who emphasized the importance of awareness in preventing public health problems and road accidents. He encouraged the population to take ownership of prevention messages to promote a culture of safety and health.

During the session, Goueu Zran Marius, a state-registered nurse and HIV/AIDS focal point in Nafoun, presented the modes of transmission of STIs and HIV, as well as prevention methods. He recommended regular screening, mutual fidelity, abstinence, and correct use of condoms to prevent the spread of these infections. Marius also highlighted the benefits of antiretroviral treatments in controlling HIV and improving the quality of life of infected individuals.

In addition to health awareness, the session also addressed road safety concerns. Ouattara, a road safety expert from the Ministry of Transport and Maritime Affairs, stressed the importance of respecting traffic codes, particularly among two-wheeled vehicle drivers. He emphasized that adherence to traffic rules can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and promote a safer transportation environment.

Mouroufié Kobenan, an environmentalist from the Road Management Agency (AGEROUTE), presented planned roadworks on five rural axes in the Poro region. The projects, which cover a total of 69.54 km, are expected to be completed within 12 months. These infrastructure developments aim to improve road connectivity and accessibility in the region, thereby enhancing the quality of life for local communities.

The awareness session concluded with a demonstration on the correct use of condoms and a free distribution of condoms to attendees. This hands-on approach aimed to reinforce the importance of preventive measures against STIs and HIV/AIDS. By engaging local populations in these critical health and safety issues, the ONG IPSDH and its partners hope to contribute to a reduction in the prevalence of STIs and road accidents in Nafoun.

The collaborative effort between the ONG IPSDH, government agencies, and international organizations underscores the commitment to addressing pressing health and infrastructure challenges in Côte d'Ivoire. By pooling resources and expertise, these stakeholders aim to create a safer, healthier environment for the people of Nafoun and beyond. The project's impact will be closely monitored, with the expectation that it will serve as a model for similar initiatives in other regions.

Key points

• The awareness session covered STIs, HIV/AIDS, and road safety.
• The PCR-CI project is co-financed by the World Bank and AIIB.
• Planned roadworks will cover 69.54 km in the Poro region.