Aphiline Ouma: Upholding Rights-Based Support for PLHIV in Migori County

Aphiline Ouma sheds light on a significant issue affecting our community in Migori County. Recently, it has come to our attention that some peers, mentors, and educators working under the Public Service Commission (PSC) are not people living with HIV (PLHIV), which goes against the intended framework for these roles.

This week, a troubling event unfolded when one of our local facilities terminated the contracts of two peers without any written notice, despite their longstanding service of over six years and their formal contracts with the organization. Shockingly, these individuals were not PLHIV, as is required for these positions to ensure authentic peer-to-peer support.

The termination of these peers' contracts was executed verbally, devoid of any formal letters or due process. This unjust practice was brought to light when one of the affected individuals approached a paralegal for support, highlighting the improper termination procedure. Such actions not only undermine the contractual rights of the employees but also disrupt the integrity of our support systems for PLHIV.

Fortunately, through the steadfast intervention of the PLHIV network, spearheaded by Aphiline Ouma, the situation was rectified.

Interviews were promptly conducted to refill these positions, and qualified PLHIV were identified to assume these critical roles. This decisive action underscores the importance of having genuine peers in mentorship and educational roles, ensuring that those who need support receive it from individuals who truly understand their experiences.

The shift away from employing PLHIV in these roles undermines the peer-to-peer strategy that is fundamental to our support systems. This strategy is rooted in rights-based support, which is essential to avoid harm and ensure compassionate, informed assistance to peers. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948 emphasizes the importance of rights-based approaches, and it is imperative that we adhere to these principles to protect and empower our community.

This episode is a triumph for the Migori Network of People Living with HIV Advocacy. Our unwavering demand for our rights and adherence to proper procedures have highlighted the importance of maintaining integrity within our support systems. We remain committed to advocating for the rights and dignity of PLHIV, ensuring that our community receives the support it deserves from those who are truly qualified to provide it.

In conclusion, it is vital for all stakeholders to recognize the significance of employing genuine peers in mentorship and educational roles within the PSC. We must continue to uphold rights-based support frameworks and adhere to the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Through our collective efforts, led by advocates like Aphiline Ouma, we can ensure that PLHIV in Migori County receive the compassionate, informed support they need to thrive.

Sarah Makau Stages Daring Rescue to Free Youth Accused of Stealing #Condoms

In an unexpected turn of events, the usually quiet neighborhood of Kitongoji witnessed an extraordinary act of bravery today. , successfully led a daring rescue mission to free a young man accused of stealing two packets of condoms worth Ksh 100.

The youth had been detained at the local police post after being accused of the petty theft. The incident had sparked significant unrest among the youth in the area, who felt the punishment did not fit the crime.

As tensions rose, Sarah Makau emerged as a leader, rallying the youth and concerned citizens. "Nisaidieni na condoms," became the rallying cry, emphasizing the community's frustration with the disproportionate response to the minor theft. The incident highlights a broader issue affecting the nation: frequent condom stock-outs in Kenya, which contribute to the high rate of HIV infection among young people.

In a show of solidarity, the group marched to the police post, demanding the young man's immediate release. They highlighted the need for a more compassionate approach to such minor offenses, especially when involving young individuals who may be driven by the urgent need to protect themselves in a context where access to condoms is often unreliable.

The campaign gained momentum, drawing attention from local media and human rights organizations. The community's slogan, "Free the Youth, End Petty Punishments," echoed across social media platforms, garnering widespread support.

Sarah Makau's courageous act not only secured the youth's release but also sparked a larger conversation about justice and youth support within the community. The residents of Kitongoji now hope this incident will lead to positive changes in how minor offenses are handled, advocating for restorative justice over punitive measures. The incident also underscores the urgent need to address condom shortages and improve sexual health resources for young people across Kenya.