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UNICEF/NYHQ2007-1578/Asselin,A nurse draws blood from a pregnant woman for an HIV test in Adja-Ouere, Benin. |
By Alex Duval Smith
ABOMEY, Benin, 8 March 2012 – “Shh! Please, there should be no mention of 'it' in the street,” said 20-year-old Leonie Sossou* as she lead visitors to her home.
In this West African country, the silence around HIV is as stifling as the Harmattan wind blowing from the desert.
At 1.2 per cent, HIV prevalence in Benin is one of the lowest in African but entrenched stigma against people living with HIV have forced UNICEF and the Government of Benin to find innovative ways to combat the disease and support those affected by it.
A disproportional burden
Today, 8 March, is International Women’s Day, which promotes gender equality and celebrates the achievements of girls and women. Below is a story illustrating some of the challenges confronting women around the world, as well as their strength in overcoming these challenges. Read more>>
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