Empowering 500 Rwandan women living with HIV/AIDS

The safe space Initiative is an ongoing effort of women who have lived with HIV/AIDS for over 20 years in Kamonyi District, alongside the support of Human Rights First Rwanda Association paralegals, that organizes outreach meetings to educate and empower other women recently diagnosed with the infection.

Human Rights First Rwanda Association initiated the safe space for women living with HIV/AIDS with aim of

Empowering Peer Support Networks:

By facilitating outreach meetings and peer support sessions, our initiative creates a safe space for women living with HIV/AIDS to share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for positive living. This peer-to-peer support network plays a crucial role in reducing isolation, building solidarity, and fostering resilience among women facing similar circumstances.

Promoting Positive Living: Through education and mentorship, women who have lived with HIV/AIDS for decades are able to impart valuable insights and practical advice to those newly diagnosed with the infection. By sharing their own journeys of resilience, acceptance, and empowerment, they inspire others to adopt a positive outlook on life, adhere to treatment regimens, and prioritize self-care.

Enhancing Coping Mechanisms: By providing practical guidance on how to cope with the challenges associated with living with HIV/AIDS, the safe space initiative helps individuals develop effective coping mechanisms and resilience strategies. Through peer support, counseling, and access to resources, women are better equipped to navigate the physical, emotional, and social aspects of the disease, leading to improved overall well-being and quality of life.

Overall, the continued support provided by your donations enables women living with HIV/AIDS to live life to the fullest, while also empowering them to empower their communities through education, advocacy, and support. By amplifying their voices, sharing their experiences, and promoting positive living and prevention strategies, you contribute to creating a more inclusive, supportive, and resilient society for all individuals affected by HIV/AIDS.

Human Rights First Rwanda Association conducted a Life Skills training in Kamonyi district from 28^th November to 1^st December 2023

The main objective of the 4 days’ workshop with 30 women living with HIV/AIDS was to empower them with life skills in order to manage and cope up with life challenges that they encounter.  The specific objectives  of the workshop included:

1. Providing participants with essential life skills.
2. Enhancing participants’ self-esteem and confidence.
3. Promoting social integration and reducing stigma.
4. Improving participants’ knowledge about HIV/AIDS and its management.
5. Assessing the overall impact of the workshop on participants’ well-being.

Through per-post test questionnaires the life skills workshop had a positive impact on women living with HIV/AIDS. The results indicated significant improvements in various domains, including knowledge about HIV/AIDS, self-esteem, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and coping strategies. Participants reported feeling more empowered and confident in managing their health and personal lives. The workshop also facilitated social connections among participants, reducing isolation and stigma.

With your continued support we can continue impacting the lives of this vulnerable women to live a more productive life without stigma and discrimination.