A coalition of civil society organizations involved in the national HIV response, alongside media partners and with support from the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), conducted an outreach visit to the Model Junction Bike Rider Union on Friday. As part of the visit, the group distributed over 1,000 condoms and provided free HIV testing and counseling services.

The purpose of the outreach was to promote HIV prevention and safe sex practices, encourage condom use, and offer voluntary HIV testing and counseling. The initiative aimed to increase knowledge of HIV prevention among bike riders and petty traders in the area and to help them know their HIV status.

Addressing the riders at the event, Prevention and Advocacy Manager Madam Esther Teh emphasized the importance of the sensitization campaign. She noted that riders represent a significant portion of the youth population and are highly social, making them influential peers.

“By educating them, we directly help to reduce the stigma associated with testing and condom use,” she said. “As important stakeholders in the informal sector, we believe they can be agents of behavioral change in managing information about HIV.”

She added that access to contraception is not just about prevention; it is about empowerment, protection, and dignity.

The outreach successfully increased awareness, encouraged safe sexual practices, and provided individuals with the opportunity to learn their HIV status. It also facilitated early linkage to treatment for those who tested positive, promoting a healthier and safer community.

The bike riders were enthusiastic, with many encouraging their colleagues to get tested while others helped distribute condoms to fellow riders.