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Organization	Ombetja Yehinga Organisation
Region	Namibia
Website	Website
Facebook	Facebook
Twitter	N/A
ProjectLeader	Philippe Talavera

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Namibia is one of the countries most affected by the HIV pandemic. We have put massive efforts to curb the impact. However, teenagers remain vulnerable. With an estimated age of sexual debut at 15 and the absence of condoms in schools, many teenagers put themselves at risk. This project works directly with teenagers using a medium they relate to. Through the power of dance, drama, youth-friendly publications, OYO creates safe spaces for teenagers to learn, share and adopt saver behaviours.

Challenge

Namibia is one of the countries most affected by the HIV pandemic, with an average prevalence of 12.6%. Adolescent girls and young women are particularly affected (prevalence among women is 15.7% and among men 9.3%). Yet less than 75% of our teenagers know their HIV status. Sensitising and educating our young people speaking a language they understand remain a challenge.

Long-Term Impact

The project will reach 15,000 teenagers. By appealing to their emotions and not their intellect, we encourage them to reflect on their lives and find solutions that work for them. We encourage teenagers to get tested for HIV. We create safe spaces where they can share freely. If more teenagers know their status, those living with HIV can access treatment at an early stage and those who are not living with the virus can develop better remain HIV negative.