In a world where HIV-positive individuals are often ostracized and discriminated against, the Human Compassion Organization in Accra, Ghana stands out as a beacon of hope.
Here, children affected by HIV are given a chance to grow, learn, and play together without fear of discrimination.
The orphanage is home to 11 boys and girls aged 3 to 18, all of whom have one thing in common – they are growing up without parents. Many of the children were born to HIV-positive parents who were also alcohol or drug abusers, and in some cases, these parents don’t even know where their children are now.
For almost 2 decades, Kwesi Boye Mensah has been running this facility, which offers a family-like care environment where these young individuals find solace in the arms of those who understand their struggles. Here, solidarity prevails, and kids both infected and unaffected co-exist in harmony, removing the fear of judgment.
Kwesi Boye Mensah’s late wife was HIV positive.
“We come into contact with some of these kids through HIV/AIDS support groups. We do psychosocial counseling for those affected and come across children who have lost their parents to HIV”
Each child, whether HIV positive or negative, follows their tailored morning routine, which includes taking medication if needed. While the older HIV-negative children understand how the virus is transmitted, everyone here is well-aware that there’s no danger of contracting the virus from HIV-positive children.
For Dr. Gamji Rabiu, this orphanage model goes a long way to help the kids living with HIV. He noted that infected kids would have a better chance out in the world living in such a family setting.
“This orphan gives us an example of what it means to choose your family and mentors”.
Despite their situation, the children still endeavor to approach their HIV infection with confidence, determined not to be defeated by the stigma of their diagnosis. Growing up with HIV can be challenging, and the stigma associated with the condition only makes it worse.
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases. It is primarily spread through sexual contact, sharing needles, or from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. There is currently no cure for HIV, but antiretroviral therapy (ART) can help people with the virus to live long and healthy lives.
The toll that the infection takes on the already fragile bodies of these children is heartbreaking. As each day passes, they know that their fate is uncertain, with a lifetime of medications and uncertainty to come. Without any family or place to go, they are left here alone, wondering when and if their suffering will ever end.
Unless they are adopted, they will likely be left to fend for themselves for the rest of their lives. It is a somber scene as the day closes at the Human Compassion Organization, but it is also a scene of hope. Hope that one day, these children will find a loving and accepting family to call their own.
This orphanage serves as a shining example of hope and acceptance for all children, reinforcing the importance of equal treatment regardless of whether a child is positive or negative for HIV. The children follow tailored morning routinesand receive equal care and attention from dedicated staff. Despite the challenges still faced, such as limited resources and pervasive stigma towards HIV, the Pokuase orphanage remains committed to providing a stable foundation for the children’s future. By fostering a positive and stable environment, the orphanage provides a profound impact on their growth, development, and overall well-being. For these children, the Pokuase orphanage is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of love and acceptance.
By: Emmanuel Samani