IHRC leaders rally youth to lead the fight against HIV on International Youth Day

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, rallied Ghanaian youth to lead the fight against HIV for a secure and sustainable future.

The action of the IHRC which took place at the Aburi Girls Senior High School was in solidarity with the youth on the occasion of the International Youth Day.

They used the occasion to champion the UNFPA-sponsored HIV prevention among young people. It was led by the Miss Malaika 2023 Beauty Queen, Lady Nana Yaa Nsarko whose ‘Live On Campaign’ project is resonating with the youth and impacting lives.

This significant event was held in conjunction with the National AIDS/STI Control Programme of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and ABBOTT, co-sponsors of the Miss Malaika 2023 HIV Prevention Project. The event was part of the campaign commemorating 20 years since the introduction of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in Ghana.

The event also served as an induction ceremony for the newly elected executives of the Ghana UN Students Youth Association.

It was graced by high-profile attendees including His Excellency Dr. Muhammad Shahih Amin Khan, World Chairman of the IHRC, His Excellency Ambassador Zein Abu, Senior Vice Chairman of the IHRC, Her Excellency Ambassador Kaoutar Agzaou, Vice Chairperson for Women Affairs at IHRC, Dr. Chief Nat Nsarko, Director General of IHRC Africa, and Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, Programme Manager of the National AIDS/STI Control Program of the Ghana Health Service.

Delivering the keynote address, His Excellency, Dr. Muhammad Shahih Amin Khan echoed the sentiments of compassion and technological empowerment, urging the youth to be accommodating.

“We must embrace persons living with HIV with love and understanding. In this digital age, it is crucial for the youth to leverage technological advancements to drive deeper change”, he said.

Ambassador Zein Abu on his part, underscored the critical importance of investing in the youth and nurturing them into positions of influence.

“Our future lies in the hands of the youth. It is imperative that we not only equip them with the necessary tools but also, provide them with the mentorship they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving world”, he said.

Her Excellency Ambassador Kaoutar Agzaou, Vice Chairperson for Women Affairs at IHRC, urged the young women present to pursue their education with determination and strive to become responsible leaders and advocates. “Your education is your most powerful weapon,” she stated. “With it, you can shape a future where you are not only leaders but also champions for those who cannot speak for themselves.”

Dr. Chief Nat Nsarko, Director General of IHRC Africa, reinforced the message of self-discipline, cautioning the youth against engaging in activities that could derail their progress. “Your potential is immense, but it can be squandered if you do not make wise choices,” Dr. Nsarko warned.

Adding a vital perspective on HIV awareness, Dr. Stephen Ayisi Addo, Programme Manager of the National AIDS/STI Control Programme, encouraged the students to get tested and stay informed about their status. “HIV is no longer a death sentence if you know your status and receive the appropriate treatment,” Dr. Addo said.

He also reminded the audience that HIV is not solely transmitted through sexual contact, highlighting the risks associated with sharing infected sharp objects. “Stigmatizing those living with HIV is not only unfair but also counterproductive to our collective efforts in combating this disease,” he emphasized.

The event was further enlivened by a drama performance by the students of Aburi Girls Senior High School, which poignantly depicted their experiences and understanding of HIV and its impact on their lives.