By Patriot corps
The recently concluded Ateker Reunion demonstrated the power of collaboration in advancing community health, as over 15,000 participants from South Sudan, Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Uganda accessed vital health services provided by the AIDS Information Centre (AIC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and Soroti Regional Referral Hospital (SRRH). The four-day event, backed by the Ministry of Health, emphasized the importance of accessible healthcare in improving lives and fostering unity among Ateker communities.
Key health services included HIV prevention through Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), self and assisted HIV testing, and screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Participants also received 6,000 male condoms, 240 tins of oral PrEP, and 500 oral self-testing kits. Emergency treatment and evacuation services were available for critical cases, underscoring the event’s commitment to comprehensive healthcare delivery.
Ateker Reunion organizers, represented by the Minister of Information and National Guidance in the Iteso Cultural Union Mr Abdallah Ochogiah, expressed deep gratitude to stakeholders such as Dr. Watmon Benedict, Director of SRRH, and Sister Dr. Ph.D. Ajiko for their dedication. The collaboration with WHO’s Communications Officer, Rita Mwagale, who educated attendees about Mpox, further highlighted the event’s focus on addressing diverse health concerns.
AIC’s growing presence in the Ateker region was celebrated for its proactive role in HIV prevention through voluntary male circumcision, PrEP, and PEP services. This effort was complemented by its recent achievement in partnership with the Ministry of Health, securing accreditation for the SRRH laboratory to the ISO 15189:2022 standard. This milestone reflects the dedication to maintaining excellence in healthcare services.
Adding a festive atmosphere, pre-event activities included a city cleaning campaign led by AIC, Etop Radio, and Soroti Flying School. The main event was animated by MCs Lemmy Ejoriewoi from Turkana, Kenya, and Bob Owinyi, who ensured the audience was both entertained and informed throughout the celebration.
The Ateker Reunion showcased how strategic partnerships and community-driven initiatives can create lasting impact, uniting people around a shared vision of health and prosperity. As the region continues to build on these successes, the future for Ateker communities shines brighter than ever.