The INCLUDE Project
Despite WHO-approved HIV self-testing, young Nigerians with disabilities still face stigma, inaccessibility, and isolation when it comes to their sexual health.
OUR SOUND SOLUTION
The INCLUDE Initiative
The INCLUDE Project aims to improve access to HIV self-testing (HIVST) and prevention services for young people, especially those living with disabilities (PWDs), in Nigeria. Among this group, girls and young women with disabilities face even greater challenges due to overlapping layers of gender-based violence, stigma, and health inequity.
Despite the World Health Organization’s approval of HIV self-testing, young people with disabilities continue to encounter multiple barriers, including social stigma, financial limitations, and the lack of disability-friendly, school-based and youth-centered healthcare services. These barriers often hinder their ability to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health (SRH).
OUR APPROACH
An Accessible Solution for an Invisible Crisis
To address this gap, the INCLUDE Initiative adopts a youth-participatory and inclusive approach to health education. The project distributes HIV self-testing kits and provides tailored counseling and educational resources that promote sexual and reproductive health awareness. Special focus is placed on equipping young girls with disabilities—a group especially vulnerable to gender-based violence—with the knowledge and confidence to make empowered health choices.
Community Engagement
Creating a youth-led advisory board and implementing school-based sensitization programs to actively engage young people, including girls, in advocacy and public health awareness.
Local Capacity Strengthening
Training caregivers, peer educators, and community leaders to enhance their capacity to support girls and young people, particularly those with disabilities.
Health System Strengthening
Partnering with disability homes, local health agencies, and school systems to create an integrated network of care that ensures accessible, youth-friendly health services. This collaboration prioritizes school-based health interventions, mental wellness support, and access to SRH services for adolescents, especially vulnerable girls and young people.
Accessible Tools
Distributing INCLUDE Packs, which feature HIV self-testing (HIVST) kits, menstrual hygiene products, and inclusive, easy-to-understand sexual and reproductive health materials. These tools are designed to reach girls and young people in both formal school settings and non-traditional learning environments, ensuring equity in access to essential health services and education.
Our Focus Areas
Advancing Health Through Education & Advocacy
HIV Prevention
Disability-Inclusive Health Services
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Community Health Education
Featured Stories and Perspectives
Read real stories from the field
HIV, Disability, and Inclusion: Highlights from the Abuja Workshop on Inclusive HIV Education
Discover highlights from our recently held workshop in Abuja.
