In collaboration with Nyundo Diocese, on 27th June 2023, Caritas Rwanda through the USAID/Igire-Gimbuka Program, conducted a Behavior Change Communication and HIV prevention campaign at the IWAWA Rehabilitation Center (IRC). 5,182 young people under rehabilitation on this island testify that they receive comprehensive care and support to help them reintegrate into society.
The ceremony began with a Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Anaclet Mwumvaneza, President of Caritas Rwanda. During the Mass, Bishop Anaclet gave the First Sacraments to 84 young people under rehabilitation at the Iwawa Center: 53 were baptized, 7 received the First Communion and 24 received Confirmation were confirmed. 4 people were received again in the Catholic Church.
This one-day campaign at the IWAWA Rehabilitation Center aimed at raising awareness on HIV prevention, ART adherence and behavior change communication as well, that lines with one of the program objectives which is reaching out to categories of people that are at high risk of contracting HIV such as hard to reach people, street children, adolescents exposed to sex work in the commercial centers and areas of transit etc…
After the Holy Mass, the football teams at Iwawa Rehabilitation Center received football jerseys and balls to motivate them to engage in physical activity, which has positive effects on their physical health and rehabilitation. In their speeches after the football match, Bishop Anaclet Mwumvaneza, USAID/IgireGimbuka Field Coordinator and ARV nurse gave messages informing and educating those youths on appropriate behaviour and HIV/AIDS preventions.
In regard to HIV prevention, the young people under rehabilitation at IWAWA were asked to work closely with nurses at the place for voluntary HIV screening and counseling to prevent new cases and adhere to ART in case new infections are found.
Igire-Gimbuka is a five-year PEPFAR / USAID-funded OVC program that aims to reduce vulnerability and incidence of HIV and GBV among Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) and their families, by facilitating inclusive access to financial and HIV/GBV services at both community and facility levels. The program is being implemented by Caritas Rwanda in 4 districts of Western Province namely Rutsiro, Rubavu, Karongi and Nyamasheke districts.