Adolescents Have Fun While Building Connections

The MTRH Rafiki Centre of Excellence in Adolescent Health continues to make strides in providing comprehensive and youth-friendly services for adolescents and young persons (AYPs) aged 14 to 24 in Eldoret, Kenya. The clinic organized an engaging, fun day for its clients at The Lobo Village in Eldoret in April.

A fun day is not just a break from routine. It's an opportunity for AYPs to connect with their peers and clinical staff outside the confines of the clinic setting. The participants enthusiastically embraced the day's spirit, sporting shirts that were themed OTZ, symbolizing Operation Triple Zero—zero missed doses, zero missed clinical appointments, and zero viral loads.

The event was packed with activities ranging from team games to dancing, archery, horse riding, and even boat rides. Amidst the laughter and excitement, Evelyn Too, the program officer, reminded the adolescents of the importance of adhering to their medication regimen and making the most of their time at Rafiki Clinic. She emphasized the correlation between physical fitness and resilience in facing life's challenges.

Dr. Douglas Gaitho, chief technical officer for USAID AMPATH Uzima offered encouragement and reassurance to adolescents. He also underscored the program's unwavering support to AYPs. Dr. Gaitho was also presented with a hand-drawn portrait from one of the talented AYPs from Rafiki Clinic.

The festivities culminated in cutting three cakes, symbolizing important messages dear to the clinic and its clients: U=U (Undetectable=Untransmittable), OTZ Champions, and Adherence. Additionally, those celebrating birthdays in April were honored.

Through events like these, USAID AMPATH Uzima's MTRH Rafiki Centre of Excellence in Adolescent Health fosters a supportive and empowering environment where AYPs can thrive and celebrate their journey towards health and resilience.