The distance that could take almost 2 hours on foot now takes her at least 30 minutes cycling on a bicycle to the nearest Health facility named after the Dwangwa Cane Growers Limited-DCGL. The closer the distance to the Health facility becomes, seamlessly the Youths at Mowe community found a one-stop centre to access HIV-related information and services right in their community.
Josophine Kamanga, 26 is looked upon by her community as a fervent HIV prevention counsellor who takes it upon herself to fight for the well-being of many.
‘When I set for Hospital, I have to work up early morning, carry my bag and ride off before the heat of the sunrays as here in Nkhotakota we normally experience hot weather living along the lake shores of Lake Malawi.’
Way back from the Hospital Josophine’s bag is loaded with condoms and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis-PREP which only lasts 4 days.
‘I go twice per week and I can’t complain about the relationship with the health officers, am received well and given all the necessary attention I need because there is always
communication before approaching them making sure to find all I need in the right place.’
‘I go twice per week and I can’t complain about the relationship with the health officers, am received well and given all the necessary attention I need because there is always communication before approaching them making sure to find all I need in the right place.’
On average, she reaches out to 57 people in a week, amongst those are 32 AGYW and 25 ABYM excluding those living with HIV and merely comes up for counselling and guidance.
To and back from the Hospital she is motivated to volunteer and keep on with the fight against HIV through the project entitled ‘Person-centered and effective combination HIV prevention options’ which is being implemented by Umunthuplus with funding from PEPFAR.
The project has seen Peer Educators like Joso being supported with a Bicycle and a Bag to work with ease. All Thanks to PEPFAR for the support.
