Kigali, November 11 – The National Association for Supporting People Living with HIV/AIDS (ANSP+) in partnership with Coalition Plus, today launched The International Testing Week, the world’s largest campaign aimed at encouraging HIV and STI testing.
Held at Gikondo Health Centre in Kigali, the launch event gathered healthcare providers, ANSP+ representatives, and peer educators from across the city. This year’s campaign theme, “Let’s Get Tested,” highlights the significance of knowing one’s status as a step toward community health and well-being.
Speaking at the event, Joseph Nziringirimana, an ANSP+ representative, emphasized the urgency of regular testing to address HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). “Testing is not just a health measure; it is a means of empowerment and prevention. The earlier we know our status, the more options we have for treatment and support,” Nziringirimana stated. He also highlighted the critical role of ANSP+ and Coalition Plus in supporting Rwanda’s public health goals, particularly in reducing the spread of HIV and STIs among vulnerable populations.
During the launch, peer educators shared insights from their experiences and offered specific recommendations to support those at risk. One of their main appeals was for increased training, calling for more workshops and educational sessions to empower additional community members to become advocates and informants on HIV prevention and treatment.
Another key recommendation focused on financial support. Peer educators stressed the need for funding to assist individuals in starting small businesses, providing a means to shift away from high-risk activities such as prostitution. “We want people to have sustainable options that allow them to live healthy, fulfilling lives,” one peer educator noted, adding that the availability of alternative income sources could play a critical role in reducing vulnerability to HIV and STIs.
The peer educators also highlighted the importance of raising awareness within their communities. They emphasized that consistent education on HIV prevention, testing, and treatment options is essential to changing mindsets and encouraging regular testing.
As Rwanda continues to make strides in combating HIV/AIDS, events like The International Testing Week serve as vital platforms for fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, community leaders, and individuals affected by HIV. ANSP+ expressed their commitment to furthering these efforts and ensuring accessible testing services for all Rwandans, with a focus on reducing stigma and promoting health equity.
The campaign will continue throughout the week, with testing centers set up across Kigali and other areas to provide free, confidential testing for HIV and STIs.
