Youth Ambassadors Trained to Harness Social Media for HIV Prevention and Response.

In a bid to strengthen the fight against HIV among young people, a group of 43 vibrant youth ambassadors took part in a training that was conducted between 30^th and 3^rd October, 2025. The training organized by RRP+ under the support of the Global Fund through the Ministry of Health/RBC, was designed to sharpen their skills in using social media platforms to raise awareness on HIV prevention and response.

Over the course of the training, these young voices, including 14 newly recruited were equipped with practical skills in content creation, online campaigns, digital storytelling, and responsible use of social media platforms such as Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp.

Youth ambassadors take part in a practical camera shooting exercise

Facilitators emphasized the role of youth in breaking the silence around HIV, combating stigma, and promoting prevention tools, including testing, treatment, and safe practices, addressing misinformation in online spaces, digital safety, privacy, and ethical considerations.

The newly recruited youth ambassadors were also allocated brands to join others in championing the core pillars of the HIV response, for enhanced community engagement, especially their fellow youth.

Driven by passion & purpose, youth ambassadors spread messages on: HIV Testing & Awareness Consistent Condom Use, Viral Load Suppression, Prep & PEP, TB-HIV Infection, Discordant Couples & PMTCT, U=U and End Stigma.

For many participants, especially new Ambassadors, the training was a turning point. “I am not used to posting about HIV, despite having the passion to work with my peers. Through this training, I have basic skills to attract attention, through making engaging and youth-friendly messages,” said Emmanuel Murwanashyaka, one of the trainees.

Dr Deo Mutambuka encouraged to go beyond being ambassadors of information to being ones of hope in ending HIV new infections, especially among their fellow youth. “Be the voices that carry the power to challenge stigma, inspire change, and protect your peers. Use all posiible digital tools to amplify the HIV prevention and response movement”, he added.

This initiative underscores the importance of empowering young people not just as beneficiaries, but as active leaders in the HIV response. By equipping the Ambassadors with digital tools and knowledge, the program amplifies their voices and ensures that life-saving messages reach the widest possible audience.