On March 8, 2025, in celebration of International Women’s Day, Gate Charity launched a public health initiative in Cotonou, Benin, Africa, focusing on sexual health education and free screening services. The initiative aims to raise awareness among local teenagers and young adults about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS, reduce social stigma, and provide free testing services to improve early diagnosis rates. Through this effort, Gate Charity has not only enhanced the health of local women and youth but also taken a significant step toward advancing gender equality and public health.

Bridging the Gap in Knowledge and Medical Resources to Enhance Health Awareness

Although global public health campaigns have made progress, the prevention and early detection of STIs and HIV in Africa still face many challenges due to prevailing social attitudes, misinformation, and limited medical resources. Adolescents, in particular, often lack access to reliable information, making them one of the most vulnerable groups.

Gate Charity recognizes that sexual health education is not only a public health matter but also a cornerstone for promoting gender equality. This initiative specifically addresses the health needs of women and young people by creating an open, inclusive platform for dialogue. Through professional guidance and educational outreach, it helps participants establish informed health management practices, boost self-protection awareness, and fill gaps in the local health education system.

Collaborating with Local Organizations to Provide Comprehensive Health Support

Co-organized with the local Beninese organization ABPF, this initiative has attracted enthusiastic participation from teenagers and young adults in the community. A dedicated team of local health experts, psychological counselors, and medical professionals conducted interactive lectures and group discussions to explain in detail the transmission routes, preventive measures, and treatment options for STIs and HIV, thereby dispelling fears and correcting misconceptions.

The event also offered anonymous and voluntary free screening services for HIV and STIs, ensuring that personal privacy was fully protected. In addition, professional medical staff provided both pre- and post-test counseling and medical advice, offering comprehensive support to those undergoing screening. For individuals who tested positive, Gate Charity and its partners have committed to providing follow-up support and facilitating timely access to professional medical care.

Leveraging International Women’s Day to Promote Health Equity and Gender Equality

At the event, participants not only received practical sexual health guides but also engaged in face-to-face consultations with experts to obtain personalized health advice and psychological support. The core goal of this initiative is to enhance the health rights of local women and teenagers while raising broader societal awareness of sexual health issues.

Gate Charity hopes to use the momentum of International Women’s Day to call on all sectors of society to prioritize health equity and gender equality. The organization emphasizes that access to medical resources should be available to everyone in need. Looking ahead, Gate Charity is committed to deepening its public welfare support in underdeveloped regions and rolling out more health empowerment projects—taking concrete steps to safeguard the health and future of women and youth around the world.

Disclaimer: All content related to this event is for charitable purposes only. The information provided is for reference only and does not constitute professional advice. None of the event’s content constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer for any service or product. Gate Charity reserves the final interpretation rights for this event and all related content. For any inquiries, please contact [email protected].