Testing during World Aids Day

Grace & Light played a central role in World Aids Day events in Jos in early December. Headquarters staff provided testing for local people and Tassie Ghata spoke during the final procession.

More than 200 people came to be tested for HIV/AIDS at PLACA (Plateau State Aids Control Agency) offices in Bassa, a town close to Jos from 4-6 December.

“PLACA invited us to offer testing open to local residents in its secretariat and education authority buildings in Bassa,” explained Tassie who is Grace & Light international coordinator. “

“We also offered testing in the home of a local chief in Mista Ali, an area in Bassa. PLACA was very supportive, funding the test kits and transport for our team between each location.”

 

 

 

World Aid Day activities culminated in a rally for 1,000 people on Monday, 9 December, starting at PLACA’s Jos office and ending at Dadin Kowa youth centre.

“Everyone representing HIV/AIDS NGOs and PLACA wore black to signify that HIV infection rates are increasing not dropping in Plateau State,” explained Tassie. “It is something the NGOs and local government are very concerned about.”