Action for Youth Foundation Trust Champions HIV Prevention in Manicaland

Zimbabwe’s crusade to eliminate AIDS by 2030 sees the Action for Youth Foundation Trust taking significant strides to support vulnerable youth.

In Manicaland, this NGO has been instrumental in uplifting young people, including those with HIV, orphans, and those from key population communities.

Over 450 youths benefited last year from the Trust’s comprehensive Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights programs.

The initiative includes at-home HIV self-testing, providing a discreet way for young people to check their status.

It also extends to providing family planning methods and education on managing HIV disclosure.

Ms. Chido Tsakatsa, the Head of Programmes, emphasized the Trust’s commitment to empowering youth with essential knowledge and skills for HIV prevention.

“Educating youth on health and economic opportunities is crucial to their well-being and our fight against HIV,” she remarked.

Ms. Lisa Katuruza, the Program Director, highlighted how the program supports youth with HIV and their partners to achieve better health outcomes.

“By fostering transparency and reducing stigma, we’re helping young people live openly and protect their health,” she explained.

Mr. Marvin Musekiwa, the Executive Director, stressed the importance of youth taking charge of their reproductive health in Manicaland.

He pointed out the high rates of unwanted pregnancies and new HIV infections linked to non-use of condoms, urging a proactive approach to sexual health.

This initiative by the Action for Youth Foundation Trust not only aims to educate but also to empower, ensuring that the youth of Manicaland are equipped to lead healthier lives amidst the challenges posed by HIV and STDs.

The Trust’s efforts in Manicaland are a beacon of hope, showcasing how targeted interventions can make a significant impact on public health, particularly among the most at-risk groups.

Through these programs, the foundation is not just preventing disease but also fostering a community where young people can thrive without the burden of stigma.

The educational aspect, combined with practical health tools, positions the Action for Youth Foundation Trust as a leader in youth health advocacy in Zimbabwe.

Their approach blends traditional education with modern health solutions, tailoring services to meet the unique needs of the youth in Manicaland.

This holistic strategy is pivotal in the broader national goal of ending AIDS, demonstrating the power of community-based, youth-focused health initiatives.

By focusing on empowerment and education, the Trust is setting a precedent for how NGOs can effectively engage with and support young people in the fight against HIV.