Condom campaign kicks off in Kamonyi

KAMONYI – Residents of Kagina Cell, in Runda Sector, Kamonyi District, have blamed ignorance on condom use for the continued HIV/Aids prevalence. They were speaking at the launch of a health campaign in the remote areas of Kagina, Wednesday. The campaign was launched by Good Neighbours (GN) Rwanda, a Korean NGO which supports community development projects among the vulnerable groups in this remote settlement. One resident, Agnes Mukama, said: “Access to condoms in rural areas is still a challenge -- for safe sex, and family planning. And there is lack of adequate knowledge on the use of condoms.” Kagina Executive Secretary, Jean Bosco Nzaramba, noted that HIV/Aids infections have been on the increase in the area, especially among vulnerable groups. “The campaign comes as a response to many health issues faced by vulnerable residents and the target is to have a solution through health education,” Nzaramba said. Residents were sensitized on HIV prevention mechanisms, including condom use, and family planning. The campaign is part of a four-phase development plan that was initiated between the local leadership and the Korean development partners recently. GN Rwanda Managing Director, David Sehyeon Baek, said the response and participation of beneficiaries will be vital in addressing such issues as unplanned births and HIV/Aids infections. “Condom education is very vital in addressing these health problems and it is important that residents are aware, open and comfortable with condom use as one of the means of prevention,” Baek said. The campaign was marked by a peaceful march, with residents carrying placards with various messages on best health practices. Free condoms were also distributed to adults. danielsabiiti@newtimes.co.rw

National

Condom campaign kicks off in Kamonyi