Behaviour change & HIV prevention (Gwadabawa, Tureta, Gada)

JCDI implemented a behavior change communication project in Gwadabawa, Tureta, and Gada LGAs to address the high prevalence of HIV among key populations. The initiative targeted groups at elevated risk, including food vendors, adolescent hawkers, female sex workers, long-distance drivers, and youth.

The project emphasized creating awareness around modes of HIV transmission, the benefits of regular testing, and the importance of adopting preventive measures such as condom use. Interactive sessions, community dialogues, and drama presentations were used to ensure the messages were engaging and culturally relevant.

Beyond knowledge transfer, JCDI worked to dismantle stigma by fostering open conversations in communities. Religious and traditional leaders were actively engaged to lend credibility to the campaign and encourage acceptance of safe practices.

By combining education, outreach, and community involvement, the project successfully promoted safer behaviors, reduced stigma, and increased uptake of HIV services in some of Sokoto State’s most vulnerable communities.