HIV+ youths in Ntcheu decry discrimination

Youths living with HIV in Ntcheu claim that they are being discriminated against in development activities.

In an interview, a community-based educator Charity Katete said the youth were left out in Malawi Enterprise Development Fund (Medf), community committees and tree planting programmes, among others.

She said lack of participation in such activities has led them into poverty.

“We, therefore, appeal to authorities to help us participate in the activities to enable us buy basic necessities,” said Katete.

Meanwhile, YouthNet and Counselling (Yoneco) in Ntcheu is implementing Investing for the Impact of HIV and Aids Among the Youth Project that seeks to address the impact of HIV and Aids among youths.

Ntcheu district Yoneco programmes support manager Sewenthe Mahwayo said stigma and discrimination are some key issues the project is addressing.

“We also want to address the issue of parents not disclosing their HIV status to their children,” she said.

In a separate interview, Ntcheu district youth officer Emmanuel Devete said youths living with HIV are sidelined in development activities due to lack of self-confidence.

He faulted the composition of community committees that exclude HIV-positive youths.

“Nevertheless, we are engaging with stakeholders, including chiefs to help rebuild committees to accommodate the youth,” he said.

The one-year project is funded by Egmond Trust.