Updates on Current Epidemics

Adolescence Clinic project

Introduction

Despite global progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS, Sub-Saharan Africa continues to carry the greatest burden. Worldwide, new HIV infections declined from 2.9 million in 1997 to 1.7 million in 2018. Yet, over 69% of the 34 million people living with HIV are in Sub-Saharan Africa, with 23.8 million affected across the continent. Each year, over 1 million adults and children still die from HIV/AIDS-related illnesses.

In Cameroon, HIV prevalence has shown a positive decline—from 4.3% in 2017 to 3.4% in 2018. However, vulnerable groups remain, particularly those aged 15–64, with women (especially ages 40–44) and men (ages 50–54) being most affected. Youths aged 15–24 have an infection rate of 1.2%, highlighting the urgent need for youth-focused interventions.

Our Mission

The Adolescent Clinic Project by Value Health Africa aims to empower adolescents—especially those in crisis-affected communities—to take charge of their sexual and reproductive health and rights. Our goal is to reduce new HIV infections, prevent sexual violence, and foster healthier, more informed communities.

Project Objectives

  • Enhance knowledge on HIV/AIDS and sexual health among adolescents.
  • Promote peer support and social integration through shared learning and group activities.
  • Support drug adherence by linking young people to healthcare, making treatment accessible, and providing sexual health education.
  • Educate on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors to encourage healthy lifestyle choices.
  • Improve mental health through psychosocial support for displaced youth and survivors of sexual violence.

Project Activities & Highlights

Adolescent Clinic – First Visit (25/11/2019)

  • Participants: 20
  • HIV Positive Cases Identified: 2 (1 male, 1 female)
  • Topics Covered:
    • Understanding HIV/AIDS: transmission, prevention, and contraception
    • Reproductive health and teenage pregnancy
    • Impact of unhealthy lifestyles

Youth Questions Addressed:

  • “When can one start having sex?”
  • “What are the signs and symptoms of maturity?”
  • “Can long-term virginity cause serious health problems?”

Adolescent Clinic – Second Visit (2/12/2019)

  • Participants: 31
  • Focus Topics:
    • Dangers of early marriage
    • How parental behavior influences adolescent sexual habits

Key Challenges Identified:

  • Cultural acceptance of early marriages
  • Need for increased parental involvement in adolescent health education

Upcoming Activities

We believe that practical skills and community celebration are essential for holistic empowerment. Upcoming activities include:

  • Skills Training: Learn to make detergent and body lotion
  • Health & Nutrition: Learn how to prepare a healthy meal
  • Community Engagement: Organize a Christmas party to build bonds and create joyful memories

Why This Project Matters

Young people in crisis zones face heightened risks—not just of HIV, but of stigma, sexual violence, and mental health challenges. The Adolescent Clinic Project offers them a safe space to learn, connect, heal, and grow. Through education, peer support, and practical life skills, we are shaping a healthier, more resilient generation.

Join Us

We welcome partnerships, volunteers, and supporters who believe in empowering youth for a better future. Together, we can create communities where every adolescent has the right to health, dignity, and opportunity.

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