Adolescent programming especially for the out-of- school has been part of COMEI interventions. Adolescents aged 11-18 years were mobilized through different channels to access and utilize health services to know their HIV status and other services . The following services were provided including clinical assessment, ART refills, counseling, adolescent reproductive health, provision of life skills for example to negotiate safer sex and GBV education.
The aim was to promote adherence and retention in care, address issues of stigma, discrimination, self awareness, sexuality and life skills. Ariel ambassadors were used to mentor the children and motivate them. To meet the needs of out-of-school youth, adolescent peers were trained to sensitize fellow youth. In one parish of Rwamucucu sub county, adolescent mothers were mobilized with their partners and given free health services including HIV counselling and testing, family planning, reproductive health education, condom use and HIV prevention.
Success/Achievements
- Number of young couples mobilized and educated about HIV/AIDs and Family Planning.
- Number of New HIV Positive Cases identified among the youth.
- Number of young Couples starting income generating projects and improving their well being.
- Number of adolescents peers trained in the community to be able to reach fellow adolescents out of school with information about reproductive health and HIV/AIDS.