The Projekthope is a media response to combat the social reaction of stigmatization and discrimination facing people who are HIV positive (PLWH) in Nigeria. This intervention is to counter the misinformation and re-present the realities about HIV/AIDS to the people. We are poised to present a positive and accurate image of PLWHAS and their ability to cope and continue to live normal lives. Through our programs, we hope to trigger responses of understanding, compassion, solidarity and support for HIV positive persons in Nigeria.

The problem we are addressing- Rarely are the voices of PLWHAs heard and expressed, rarely are accurate depictions of healthy individuals who actually continue to live productive lives despite their diagnosis seen, and rarely are positive images of life with treatment and support displayed. Rather, what we live with is a continuous negative depiction of HIV/AIDS and those living with it. These images represent ready made but inaccurate explanations that provide a powerful basis for stigmatization and discrimination that delays appropriate help seeking terminates treatment and interferes with voluntary testing and counseling.

Programs- Our major program NigeriaHIVinfo.com is designed to create constant, positive and visible examples of the realities of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria by strategically increasing the visibility of people living with the condition. It is poised to erase the fear and prejudice that lies at the core of the social reaction of stigma and discrimination being experienced by this group. It is also an avenue to educate our people and correct misinformation about HIV/AIDS.

Our Activities:

Media monitoring project

We monitor content of HIV/AIDS reportage in the media that borders on the human rights aspects of stigma and discrimination of HIV positive persons.

HIV/AIDS Training
The role of the media is fundamental to global efforts against HIV/AIDS misinformation and stigma, as well as shaping HIV-related policy and public perception of people living with the virus. Well-informed and responsible (professional) news reporting helps create an environment where these sensitive issues are addressed with greater openness and responsiveness –- a growing necessity in a country where more than 6 million people are living with HIV/AIDS. Our HIV/AIDS reporting training program is thus designed to help journalists develop the specific skills and attitudes necessary to report on HIV/AIDS issues in Nigeria.

Reporting HIV/AIDS
Overtime, we have maintained columns in some magazines where we report HIV/AIDS and have contributed content to several Radio and TV programs in an effort to appropriately report the condition.

Documentary
We are in the middle of a mini documentary that documents the occurrence of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.

Music
We recorded a song about HIV/AIDS in 2003, which addresses the youths about the need to abstain and necessity of a safer sexual practice. In November 2005, we went back to the studio to re-mix this song to address latest developments in the HIV/AIDS arena. Soon, we shall hit the air waves with a video recording of this song.

Peer Education
In year 2002, the Projekthope implemented a training of trainers (TOT) for the New Era Foundation in Lagos State. We facilitated training in two zones from the six, which Lagos was delineated. This effort saw us train over 300 students from more than 13 secondary schools in Lagos State as peer educators. Also in year 2005, we also facilitated trainings for the New Era Foundation, first for wives of Local Government Chairmen, then wives of Councilors and finally market leaders from the 57 local councils of the State.

Rural awareness campaign
In year 2000, we carried out an awareness campaign on HIV/AIDS in the rural setting of Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo State. This effort, a first of its kind in the locality, saw us campaign in seven major localities of the community. It signaled and heralded more efforts in the area of HIV/AIDS education awareness in that community. The Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH) and The State Hospital Oyo, provided technical support.