In Kinshasa in particular, the social, political, educational and cultural crises that have hit the population have destroyed the socio-educational and health infrastructures. In addition, they have enabled the appearance of risk practices such as prostitution, clandestine abortions, abandonment of street children, etc…
It is within this context that Alternatives has chosen to support a campaign managed by CODIAF (Collectif de diffusion de l’information et d’appui aux femmes) that aims to improve family planning and support in the fight against STDs and HIV/AIDS for youths/adolescents and adults living in the poor neighbourhoods of KINSHASA.
More specifically, the campaign aims to:
• Raise awareness of the importance of reproductive health among target populations;
• Host meetings on family planning, the fight against clandestine abortions, the fight against STDs and HIV/AIDS, pregnancy and maternity risks among adolescents, and maternal and infant mortality;
• Educate youths/adolescents and others for better social integration;
• Inform target populations of the dangers of irresponsible sexuality;
• Train marriage and family counsellors;
• Train campaign organizers;
• Raise and increase the awareness of parents and teachers regarding child care;
• Strengthen the culture of family life and affection between couples, children and members of the immediate and extended family.
The pilot phase of the campaign will reach two low-income outlying neighbourhoods of Kinshasa (Mombele and Kingabwa) in the municipality of Limete, involving 5000 youths who will be trained directly by CODIAF educators. With the addition of messages in the media, the campaign hopes to reach at least 50 000 people. According to the results of the first phase, Alternatives hopes to be able to extend the program to other Kinshasa municipalities, and eventually to the entire province.
