For the past two weeks, we have trained 20 more girls on adolescent reproductive health and HIV/Aids, totaling our number to 52 girls. These short trainings to be provided in series will help to equip the target girls with skill and abilities regarding their sexuality and well being. We believe informed girls will be able to protect themselves and prevent exposure to HIV. These girls will be able to make wise choices and reduce their vulnerability to abuse and HIV/AIDS infection.

Participation girls also had an opportunity to share real life experiences on their sufferings and problems and explored ways and means on how best to overcome their problems. Meanwhile each club has been given netball to enhance their frequency of meeting and also to be preparing for Girls Empowerment and HIV/AIDS prevention tournament scheduled in November and finals to take place on 1st December, 2008 (World Aids Day). Participating girls are currently composing songs carrying information about HIV/Aids, gender and women rights in preparation to community mobilization and sensitization campaign activities to be conducted between October-November 2008.

Morale continues to mount amongst girls in our target area as more girls want to join the clubs and be part of this initiative.

I have leant that given an opportunity girls can do wonders and that problems girls are facing can better be solved by girls themselves. Participating girls are exploring on survival options that does not put their lives at risk.

Faith Phiri