AVEGA embarks on behavioural change and HIV/Aids fight

EASTERN PROVINCE RWAMAGANA—In addition to trauma and counselling training, the AVEGA women Genocide survivors’ organisation branch in Eastern Province has embarked on training in behavioural change and HIV/Aids sensitisation. Opened on September 24, AVEGA is currently holding a ten-day training for members, dubbing the meeting as a ‘stepping stone.’ Trainer Margaret Mukachaka called the meeting a “significant stepping stone” as training targets Genocide survivors, including youth, widows and widowers in enlightening them on dangers of the HIV/Aids scourge. Tharcisse Gakwerere from Gatsibo district anticipates a lot by the end of the training. Though it has just begun, he said, “we expect to reap much out of it.” “Many people in the village are ignorant about HIV/Aids. Even those who know about it are not scared. So we expect to help fellow residents with knowledge we are getting from this training,” Gakwerere said. The training is attended by close to 50 people, bringing together 6 representatives from each district in Eastern Province. Ends