The first cases of HIV/AIDS in Liberia were reported in 1985 - though civil war hampered attempts to respond to the outbreak. It was in 2000 that the role of National AIDS Commissioner was established; in order to co-ordinate all HIV/AIDS activities across Liberia.
Grand Gedeh and Maryland counties have a prevalence of HIV/AIDS and
large numbers of people in these areas have little access to education
programmes, testing or treatment due to discrimination - individuals,
families and whole communities are affected by the stigmatisation
associated with HIV/AIDS.
The Positive Live Exhibition tour in Liberia was co-ordinated by the two
County Health Teams as well as local HIV activists; and with the support
of UNHCR-Liberia. The Exhibition programme featured community events
including drama, music, a street parade, quizzes, sports events and
condom distribution.
For each venue the organising committees set up focal points where
visitors could read explanations of the exhibited photographs or ask
question of the facilitators from MERCI and Tiyatien Health.
The Positive Lives Exhibition and programme benefited large numbers of
people from across the community: local people, refugees, County
representatives, youth groups, NGOs, UNMIL and UN agencies.
HIV activists and support groups from across the Grand Gedeh and
Maryland counties worked together for the first time to organise these
stigma reducing events and activities.
The Exhibition was at its most successful when it prompted people to
break their silence and speak about their situation or attitude
regarding HIV/AIDS. And when this dialogue occurs within the community
and not just the exhibitions venues then the value of the Exhibition and
programme activities are most apparent.
(report and images made available to Positive Lives by UNHCR/UNFPA)
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