World AIDS Day 2025 (WAD 2025) arrives at a moment of both possibility and peril, and the official theme, Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response, highlights the severe disruptions caused by abrupt funding cuts, political instability, and the resurgence of punitive laws.

In honor of this significant day, the Jesuit health and youth network, AJAN, organized a sensitization session at the AJAN secretariat premises, AFRICAMA House, Nairobi, Kenya on 1st December 2025, igniting awareness and hope among vulnerable communities. Participating AJAN centers and beneficiaries connected virtually across Africa, reinforcing a collective commitment to the Universal Apostolic Preferences (UAPS).

Fr. Ismael Matambura, SJ, AJAN’s director, called upon the world to recognize the suffering Christ within vulnerable communities, advocating for the creation of welcoming spaces and the transformation of unjust structures that perpetuate HIV/AIDS. Noting the dual role of youth as both disproportionately affected and vital agents of change, he highlighted the urgent need for support for youth-led organizations. He underscored AJAN’s pivotal programs, which accompany youth in discerning their paths, nurturing creativity, and empowering them through entrepreneurship for a hope-filled future.

During the session, Mr. Troone Paul, a St. Aloysius High School alumnus from Kenya, shared his AJAN journey. He expressed gratitude for those who inspired hope and motivated him to chase his dreams despite hardships. “As a beneficiary of the AJAN program, I have learned to cope with peer pressure, and the participatory work enables us to reach out to others in the slums, helping us navigate our challenges. The programs also foster my faith and personal growth,” he shares, encouraging others in similar situations to seek mentorship from AJAN for their development. Addressing the stigma faced by vulnerable communities, Mr. Paul noted the pervasive social constructs that lead to isolation and despair, advocating for increased awareness and solidarity.

The session culminated in a Holy Mass of prayers and thanksgiving at Africama Chapel, where Ms. Monica Apiyo, another St. Aloysius alumnus, shared her empowering journey. She recounted her experiences with stigma and urged more people to participate in the campaign for AIDS response, particularly for children and youth. She emphasized the importance of holistic support for vulnerable communities, highlighting the comforting and hopeful work of AJAN and St. Aloysius Secondary School.

Through this session, AJAN promotes personal, communal, and institutional conversions, emphasizing collaboration and a mission to “walk with the excluded,” listening and advocating for justice.

By, Agi Peter Onah,

AJAN Liaison Officer.