PORT — GENTIL, Gabon – In a bid to enhance public health awareness and combat HIV/AIDS, the Centre de traitement ambulatoire (CTA) of Ogooué-Maritime, located in the western region of Gabon, has initiated a comprehensive HIV testing campaign named “Zero Risk, Zero Regret. “.
The campaign, which commenced on July 16, 2026, at the Camp-Boireau market in Port-Gentil, aims to bring HIV testing services closer to the population and promote a better understanding of their serological status.
The campaign, spearheaded by the General Directorate of AIDS Prevention, is set to run throughout the vacation period.
According to Dr. Marie-René Okili Abdoulaye-Ondeno, the head of the CTA in Ogooué-Maritime, the initiative is strategically positioned at busy markets to maximize reach. “.
The testing is the cornerstone of the fight against HIV/AIDS. We chose the markets because of their high foot traffic, and we want to ensure as many people as possible can access the test, “Dr. Ondeno explained.
The campaign targets approximately 2,000 individuals across 10 sites, with an initial goal of 200 participants per site. To date, the campaign has surpassed expectations, with 261 individuals already tested.
The campaign will subsequently move to other markets and villages in the departments of Bendjé and Étimboué, aiming to eliminate barriers that prevent some from accessing healthcare services.
The campaign’s primary objective is early diagnosis, emphasizing that individuals may appear healthy while in the early stages of seroconversion. Early testing allows for timely treatment and significantly improves the chances of living a healthy life. Dr.
Ondeno encouraged the public to take advantage of the free testing offered during the campaign.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Agpgabon
Source: Redaction
