Photo credits: Aide et Action
The COVID-19 pandemic spares no country. In Africa, while urban centres are largely covered by information and awareness campaigns on barrier measures (television, radio, internet, posters, etc.), the same cannot be said for more rural areas. This is why Aide et Action decided to carry out information and prevention activities in 11 villages in Togo. This awareness raising is done "door to door", in order to reach all families. To date, four villages and 2132 people have been approached.
Testimonies from residents of the affected areas
"This initiative has enlightened us on a very important subject that was previously unknown to our community. Before this information session, we only heard about the Coronavirus on the radio and through rumours. We weren't even sure if it was real. We didn't know the modes of transmission and we continued with our habits such as shaking hands, getting together to discuss family and community issues. Today we know that the Coronavirus really exists and that we can avoid it if we respect the barrier measures that the health and hygiene officer spoke to us about at length. I really thank Aide et Action and hope that it continues to accompany us and enlighten us in the fight against this pandemic. We are going to continue with door-to-door sensitization so that the messages are spread to our entire community.
Mr. KPANABATE, President of the Village Development Committee (VDC) of Pana-Bagou
" I really want to thank the initiators of this awareness-raising, especially for the images used to enlighten us about this virus that has been destabilising the whole world for months. We had already been sensitised on the Coronavirus and had received hand-washing kits from the town hall and a local NGO, but this sensitisation came to equip us more on the prevention measures and the symptoms of the disease. We are really happy with the messages that came out of this initiative. The community of Boumongue is now ready to fight!
Head of the Boumongue district
"I thank Aide et Action for the interest it has always shown in my community. Thanks to this door-to-door initiative, even elderly people who cannot leave their homes have been informed. Awareness-raising continues every evening at the local market, and shop assistants who were initially reluctant to take preventive measures have also decided to practice barrier measures. A hand-washing device has been installed and social distancing is respected. Together, we will fight against COVID-19".
Mr NATIYI, Chief of the Worgou district
