Ada east: The Naana Kakie Foundation marked Valentine's Day by distributing free condoms in parts of the Ada East District to promote safe sexual practices and raise awareness about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative targeted individuals celebrating Valentine's and Chocolate Day with their partners. Over 1,000 condoms were handed out at key locations such as the GCB area, Tamatoku Junction, Sogakorpe Station, Amlakpo Junction, and the Police Station Junction within Kasseh, as well as parts of Adokorpe.
The beneficiaries included shop owners, commercial motorbike riders, drivers, provision sellers, commuters, and some security personnel. Many recipients expressed appreciation, noting that while they would have purchased the condoms, receiving them for free was beneficial.
Ms. Esther Kakie Ayimavor, also known as Naana Kakie, Founder and CEO of the foundation, stated that the initiative aims to encourage responsible sexual behavior during the celebrations. She emphasized the importance of protection in curbing the spread of HIV and other STIs, especially since many young people find abstinence challenging.
"Valentine's Day is largely celebrated by lovers and potential lovers, so it is important to remind people to love responsibly and protect themselves," she said. Ms. Ayimavor expressed concern over high HIV prevalence among the youth and called for increased education by health authorities and civil society organizations.
She also urged the public to avoid stigmatizing individuals living with HIV, stressing that the virus is not transmitted through casual contact. "HIV cannot be contracted through eating, drinking, sitting, or talking with an infected person. It is transmitted through blood contact and unprotected sexual intercourse. So why the stigma?" she asked.
Ms. Ayimavor shared an encounter with a man living with HIV who sought advice on disclosing his status to his wife, highlighting the emotional and social challenges faced by many due to stigma.
Some pharmacies reported to the GNA that condom sales had increased, suggesting rising awareness of HIV. Community members praised the initiative and called for similar exercises to be conducted regularly. Mr. Maruk Idrisu, an okada rider, mentioned that he consistently used condoms for protection, while another resident, Ernest, urged the youth to prioritize their health by practicing safe sex.
The Naana Kakie Foundation is a non-governmental organization committed to health advocacy and community empowerment, with a focus on HIV awareness and adolescent health education.