Pwojè SIDA
A free star-studded concert and HIV-testing initiative.
featuring:
-
A line-up of Haiti’s biggest stars including Boukman Eksperyans, Barikad Crew, Roody Rood Boy, Dutty Yep Nishishi, Kiko Tru Rasta, and more...
-
FREE HIV testing all day
-
FREE condom distribution
-
Public Health Media Campaign with Myth-busting facts
-
Referrals to free medical care
Rue Chevannes
August 27th, 2016
 |  |  |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |
Port-au-Prince, Haiti, August 27th 2016 - In partnership with Izolan Oye Oye, Fondation Esther Boucicault Stanislas (FEBS), Health Education Action League (HEAL Haiti), and other community partners, Konbit Mizik provided rapid oral HIV testing to a total of 640 people in the BPC zone of Port-au-Prince and linked 30 reactive individuals for follow up testing and care at the nearest Gheskio Centre, FOSREF Clinic, or the General Hospital in accordance with Haiti Ministry of Health Protocols. Additionally, we distributed 5,000 ONE Condoms and myth-busting facts and health education to the community.
We estimate that we had over 1 million media impressions between TV/radio/social media (Click here to watch our TV spot) and we are currently compiling and editing footage of the event for a short documentary film in English and Kreyol, which will include HIV facts and resource information for the Haitian general population.
Major statistical takeaways:
- a much higher prevalence rate than we expected - 3.9% vs. 2%.
(from 133 surveys completed)
- 64% of respondents were male
- 55% of respondents had previously taken an HIV test
- over 50% of respondents have completed high school or university
- over 74% of respondents have "little or no fear" of HIV/AIDS
We will continue to analyze the data and look for correlations within this sample population between age, educational level, previous HIV test, and other variables on which we have data.
With Pwojè SIDA, our inclinations proved correct that in order to beat AIDS in Haiti and around the world by eliminating new infections and connecting people to antiretroviral therapy, we must build on this model of bringing testing to the street level, deep in the hearts of the communities where people live, breaking down fear and stigma and hyping up testing with celebrity star power. Pwojè SIDA was a great first step to bridge the gap between where an individual lives and the nearest free HIV clinic, even if it’s not far away.
In conclusion, on behalf of Konbit Mizik, our community partners and sponsors, volunteers and friends, from the bottom of our hearts, we thank you. Pwojè SIDA was, and is possible, because of you.
Respectfully,
Nick Cannell
Executive Director
Sponsor Organizations & Partners
OraSure Technologies is a leader in the development, manufacture and distribution of oral fluid diagnostic and collection devices and other technologies designed to detect or diagnose critical medical conditions. These products include OraQuick® In-Home HIV Test. (www.orasure.com)
ONE® brings a fresh perspective to the concept of sexual health through a fusion of advanced product design, manufacturing technology, and social responsibility (www.onecondoms.com)
Global Protection is the industry's fastest growing condom distributor and manufacturer. Global Protection's mission is to make condoms as socially acceptable as toothpaste and safer sex as second nature as wearing a seat belt. (www.globalprotection.com)
Official label of Haitian superstar Izolan (www.izolanofficial.com)
Le Service métropolitain de collecte de résidus solides (SMCRS) is dedicated to the collection and treatment of solid waste in Port-au-Prince.
The Office of Youri Chevry, Mayor of Port-au-Prince
The Consulate General of the Republic of Haiti in New York assists and protects citizens of Haiti, and facilitates trade and friendship between investors in the United States and Haiti.
Founded in 1995, FEBS is a leading organization in Haiti dedicated to the reduction of the prevalence of HIV/AIDS and the reintegration of people living with HIV into society by providing psychological, social, and logistical support.
HEAL Haiti is a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and mobilizing young leaders to improve health care and save lives through nursing training and health and science education programs. (www.heal-haiti.org)
MIMSI is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the reduction of maternal morbidity and mortality in remote areas of the developing world through the deployment of trained community volunteers, new technologies, and improved access to transportation. (www.mimsi.org)
AMHE promotes the health and interest of the Haitian immigrant community at large and contributes to the advancement of medicine and the betterment of public health in Haiti. (www.amhe.org)
Konbit Soley Leve is a social movement which was founded in Cite Soleil in June 2011 by residents of Cite Soleil. Its mission is to work to help the people of Cite Soleil take their lives and destinies into their own hands, largely through the model of a traditional Haitian labor cooperative called a konbit.
Haiti Medicine stores and distributes top quality medicines and pharmaceutical products throughout Haiti. (www.haitimeds.com)
The mission of H.A.V.A is to promote the military history of Haitian men and women in the United States and around the world. HAVA assists veterans in need in the U.S., Haiti, and surrounding Caribbean region. (www.haitiansamericansvets.weebly.com)