Children speak out at African conference on HIV and AIDS
News from the International HIV/AIDS Alliance and the Coalition for promoting children’s voices
4 December 2005
“Children know what they are talking about; children are not stupid.” says Bukky Olumedji, Nigerian counsellor and youth activist. “I think adults should listen a lot to children.”
Nigerian children and youth activists are set to deliver a powerful message to the 10,000 delegates attending the opening ceremony of the 14th International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) which begins in Abuja on Sunday 4th December. This year’s conference will be looking at the family and the impact that HIV and AIDS has had on families in Africa.
Speaking out in a short film produced by International HIV/AIDS Alliance, Save the Children, VSO, and Nigerian partners, their message is clear – HIV and AIDS is destroying the lives of families across Nigeria, but children can be part of the solution, and their voices need to be heard.
In the film the children discuss the impact that HIV and AIDS has had on their own lives and those of their friends. They discuss the problems faced by children in Nigeria, and propose ways of taking action. Overwhelmingly, the message they are trying to bring to the conference delegates is one of hope.
“I don't have a school cap. We're back at school, but I don't have a school shirt, or trousers or shoes. My colleagues have all paid their school fees. This makes me sad, but I'm hopeful for the future. Even if you don't have parents, it doesn't mean you can't achieve.” Young Nigerian boy who has lost his father to AIDS.
Editor’s notes
1. The video has been produced by the “Coalition for promoting children’s voices”; formed by the International HIV/AIDS Alliance, Save the Children, VSO and Nigerian partners. There will be a range of activities organised by the coalition, including a satellite session on children’s participation and a children’s exhibition at the community forum.
2. For more information, including a full transcript of the film, and to arrange interviews, please contact Patrick Wajero, Programme Manager for HIV and AIDS at VSO Nigeria: Mobile +234 80 348 00740. E: Patrick.wajero@vsoint.org or in the UK, Simon Moore, Communications manager, International HIV/AIDS Alliance. T: 01273 718744. E: smoore@aidsalliance.org
