In Ghana, AIDS/HIV awareness has come a long way, but many friends in our community are still not getting tested or are stigmatized by their peers. One way we can help is to focus on health, fitness and education. Inspired by San Francisco AIDS Walk on the same day, July 14, 2013, we hope to join in solidarity to make this a sister-city awareness event. The 2nd Annual AIDS Race Cape Coast seeks to address all HIV/AIDS related matter.
Currently, the Central Region of Ghana has recorded the highest number of HIV/AIDS related cases. Cape Coast is the capital of the region. With the highest infectious rate, many youth are at risk of getting infected by the virus. There is also the issue of stigmatization when someone is tested positive. A large number of the populace shy away from doing HIV test or can not bear the cost which comes with getting tested. Every member of the community can benefit from this event educationally.
After much work, the route is mapped, the racers are coming from around the country, nearly 200 volunteers (international and local) are being recruited, medals and first aid are all being prepped. We have runners, joggers and walkers as well as a finish line festival, complete with free HIV testing, awareness workshops and printed educational materials, local drummers and dancers, vocal artists, an awards ceremony, goodie bags and raffle prizes.
The long term impact range from people knowing their status to been well educated and sensitize on issues regarding HIV/AIDS. As this is an annual event, it will continue to draw awareness and attention to the issue at hand. It takes months to organize such an event which also has the ability for continued awareness and education during the whole planning process.
