World AIDS Day 2024: RAPAA NGO Presents the Report of Its Actions

---

Extract from the article: The NGO Research, Preventive Action, Addiction Support (RAPAA) presented, on Friday, December 13, 2024, in Lomé, the report of its activities conducted in observance of World AIDS Day (WAD). The presentation took place during a press conference...

---

The NGO Research, Preventive Action, Addiction Support (RAPAA) presented, on Friday, December 13, 2024, in Lomé, the report of its activities conducted in observance of World AIDS Day (WAD). The presentation took place during a press conference held at their headquarters. RAPAA also raised an alarm about the urgency of paying greater attention to the right to health for people living with HIV and key populations.

Under the theme "Follow the Path of Rights", the official theme of WAD 2024, RAPAA committed to ensuring access to fundamental rights for key populations (drug users and sex workers) through a community action initiative carried out on December 12, 2024, in the Agoè Houmbi neighborhood. The participatory approach adopted involved local authorities, the Agoè Nyivé Anti-Drug Coalition, and representatives of drug users. In collaboration with the NGO FAMME, various integrated services were provided, ranging from prevention to psychosocial support.

A total of 205 people were educated on the risks associated with the consumption of psychoactive substances and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV and hepatitis. Around 6,440 condoms and 500 lubricants were distributed to reinforce prevention messages. 115 individuals underwent voluntary testing for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. The results revealed 2 positive cases of HIV, 3 positive cases of syphilis, and 2 positive cases of hepatitis B. These individuals were referred to the NGO FAMME for medical and psychological care. Regarding psychosocial support, 42 individuals (30 men and 12 women) benefited from consultations to assist them in their journey out of addiction. Additionally, 105 beneficiaries received hot meals and hygiene kits.

According to Catherine Kadidja Touré, President of RAPAA, this theme is a call to action to build a future that respects everyone's health and dignity. "It compels us to educate and mobilize communities to fight against stigma and discrimination while strengthening policies that protect the rights of people living with HIV and those affected by substance use. We also issue a collective call to all stakeholders, technical and financial partners, decision-makers, media, and communities to increase efforts in preventing new infections, supporting dependent individuals, and promoting equitable access to healthcare," she added.

For RAPAA, WAD serves as an opportunity to strengthen support for people living with HIV/AIDS, intensify awareness and prevention actions targeting the general public and key groups, respond to the use of psychoactive substances and HIV/AIDS transmission, encourage individuals to know their HIV status, and advocate for access to care for PLHIV and people using psychoactive substances.

Advocacy for the Rights of Key Populations

During the press briefing, RAPAA emphasized the importance of ensuring the fundamental rights of key populations, particularly access to quality healthcare without discrimination or stigma. With technical and financial support from the National Council for the Fight Against AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (CNLS-IST), the National Program for the Fight Against AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (PNLS/IST), and UNAIDS, this intervention highlighted the impact of coordinated and inclusive action.

RAPAA also commended the commitment of journalists in raising awareness and advocating for the fight against addiction and HIV/AIDS. Their involvement is crucial in reducing risks associated with substance use and supporting individuals seeking rehabilitation.

Raymond DZAKPATA