According to the 2019 Demographic and Health Survey, Sierra Leone has a mixed and generalized HIV epidemic with a prevalence of 1.7%.
One group participating in the fight against HIV and STDs is called Pink Power.
The group was established by sex workers to support the defense of the rights of disadvantaged women and children in Sierra Leone.
Today, it offers programs to empower the lives of numerous vulnerable young women. The Tricycle or Kekeh Campaign is one of these initiatives.
This is a part of the initiatives and campaigns the Pink Power organization is running to educate people about the risks of STDs and the benefits of using condoms.
when you’re unlucky enough to be riding in one of these kekehs. You receive one box of condoms from them.
Over 12 female Kekeh riders who earn a living while promoting condom use for safe sex have received training from the organization.
You are protected from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases by this condom.
Our tricycle’s motto is “One ride, one condom,” according to Elizabeth Juana.
The women’s employment is not limited to Kekeh riding.
They have a facility where they are instructed in a variety of skilled tasks. The Pink Power national coordinator is Mohamed Corgay. We currently have some activities going on at this center.
There is some tailoring education taking place. In addition to our ongoing hairdressing activities, this area also houses a computer lab where the majority of these girls come to practice their computer skills during their downtime.
One of Pink Power’s beneficiaries is Zainab Turay. She explains that the company faces equipment problems that make it difficult for them to continue with their training.
“The sewing machines are insufficient. We number more than 12 people and have three to four tailoring machines. Some people will spend the entire day sitting without using one. Pink Power has given me a lot of advantages. Both hairdressing and tailoring are skills I learned.
Pink Power is collaborating with other organizations to gather information on HIV/AIDS in Sierra Leone as part of the campaigns.
