November 26, 2025
Residents of Turkestan Support the Campaign “From Challenges to Change: Accelerating the HIV Response”As part of the campaign dedicated to World AIDS Day, specialists from the Regional Centre for HIV Prevention in Turkestan organized a large-scale motor rally titled “From Challenges to Change: Accelerating the HIV Response.” The event took place on the city’s main streets and drew the attention of both residents and visitors.
Every year on 1 December, the world marks World AIDS Day. According to the organizers, this date serves as a call to action to strengthen communities’ capacity to respond to HIV. Experts from the Centre emphasized the importance of raising public awareness about modern HIV treatment options, knowing one’s HIV status, and timely testing.
“Stigma and fear still prevent people from getting tested. Our goal is to show that learning your HIV status is simple, safe and essential for everyone. By knowing their status, individuals can continue practising prevention, and in case of a positive result, access early and effective treatment,”said Erkin Yesaliyev, epidemiologist at the Regional HIV Centre.
During the motor rally, specialists informed residents and visitors about free and anonymous rapid HIV testing, the possibility of receiving results in a short time, and counselling services available for those seeking information about HIV.
One participant shared his impressions:
“I believe that such awareness activities are very useful for the population. People will definitely be more willing to get tested to know their HIV status,”he said.
more »November 26, 2025
Rapid HIV testing for passengers and employees of Astana airportAbout 50 people were tested for HIV at Astana International Airport. The doctors of the HIV Infection Center conducted an express testing campaign for residents and guests of the capital, and also spoke about HIV prevention measures as part of the Global Campaign «From Challenges to Transformations in response to HIV.»
During the event, experts reminded about the basics of prevention, ways of transmission of the virus and stressed the importance of regular examinations. The participants were told that timely detection of infection allows them to start treatment at an early stage and maintain their quality of life.
Those interested actively engaged in the dialogue, asked questions about modern methods of diagnosis, treatment and common myths related to HIV. The doctors explained in detail which situations do not pose a risk, and reminded about the availability of free and confidential testing in the city.
As a result of the campaign, the airport's employees and passengers took advantage of the opportunity to undergo rapid HIV testing on the spot and receive expert advice.
#Stopvichkz #Centrvichastana#
more »November 26, 2025
Training on HIV Testing Motivation Held in ShymkentAs part of the Global Fund grant titled “Ensuring Sustainability and Continuity of HIV Testing and Prevention Services among Key Populations and Supporting Treatment Adherence among People Living with HIV,” a two-day training on engaging key populations in HIV testing using the Social Network Strategy (SNS) was held in Shymkent on 19–20 November.
The training brought together specialists from non-governmental organizations and HIV prevention centres from the regions participating in the Global Fund project.
Representatives of the Public Foundation “Community Friend” shared their successful experience from Almaty. From July 2024 to November 2025, 37 people from key populations tested positive for HIV through rapid testing conducted at the NGO. The SNS approach has proven to be an effective method for engaging key populations, increasing the detection of new HIV cases, and strengthening HIV prevention systems in Kazakhstan. This strategy helps to build sustainable community connections, reduce barriers to testing, and enhance the effectiveness of the national HIV response.
Participants gained practical skills in applying the SNS method through exercises and role-playing, preparing them to implement this approach in other regions of the country.
more »November 25, 2025
Youth “HIV Party” Held in TurkestanSpecialists from the Turkestan Regional AIDS Center organized a youth event on HIV, themed around UNAIDS’ slogan “From Challenges to Transformations in Response to HIV.”
More than 150 young people attended the event. Medical professionals provided information about HIV transmission routes and protective measures. Discussions also covered various health-related topics, including the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and the importance of personal responsibility.
The event featured a guest living with HIV, who shared their life experience, and participants had the opportunity to ask questions.
The topic of HIV testing generated particular interest. Doctors explained that HIV tests can be done free of charge and confidentially at affiliated clinics or the AIDS Center. Those who wished were able to take rapid tests, receive consultations, and learn their HIV status. Participants were also advised on the importance of regular check-ups to maintain their health.
Specialists emphasized the importance of early diagnosis, explaining that it allows timely access to necessary care and helps maintain a high quality of life. Doctors also discussed modern approaches to HIV treatment, highlighting that thanks to antiretroviral therapy, people living with HIV can lead full and active lives.
The event included interactive quizzes and mini-training sessions aimed at debunking myths about HIV. A quiz game was also organized, allowing active youth to demonstrate their knowledge. Such formats help participants better absorb information and openly discuss important issues. At the end of the event, informational booklets were distributed to all attendees.
more »November 25, 2025
Art Contest on HIV Prevention Among Children with DisabilitiesThe Almaty Regional Center for HIV Prevention and Control organized an educational event as part of the World AIDS Day Campaign, held at the Regional Special Boarding School No. 1 in Yesik. The event featured a creative drawing contest for children with disabilities, as well as an informational seminar on HIV prevention.
The drawing contest provided a vibrant platform for students’ self-expression. Through colors and lines, the children conveyed their feelings, dreams, and hopes—each drawing telling a unique, heartfelt story filled with kindness and optimism.
“The students showed great imagination and genuine emotion in their work. The drawings on HIV and healthy lifestyles were bright, meaningful, and full of significance. Each one reflected the child’s inner world and their understanding of the importance of taking care of their health. Such contests help reveal creative potential, boost self-confidence, and motivate further development,” noted N. Kasymov, a specialist at the Almaty Regional AIDS Center.
A total of 85 children participated in the event. The winners were: T. Azim – 1st place, G. Zheniskhankyzy – 2nd place, and I. Zholtay – 3rd place. Winners and participants received certificates and commemorative gifts.
As part of the event, specialists from the Almaty Regional AIDS Center also held an informational seminar on HIV prevention for students and teachers. Participants learned about HIV transmission routes, protective measures, the importance of tolerance toward people living with HIV, and common myths were dispelled. The seminar format allowed both children and adults to receive accurate answers to their questions.
The Almaty Regional AIDS Center expresses gratitude to the children, teachers, and school administration for their active participation and for creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere during the event.
more »November 24, 2025
City Volleyball Tournament in KostanayOn 22 November 2025, a volleyball tournament among health-care workers was held in Kostanay as part of the campaign dedicated to World AIDS Day.
The city tournament brought together doctors, nurses, paramedics and other health professionals from various medical institutions. They came to the court not only for sporting victory but also to remind everyone that health, support and knowledge are our shared strength.
Ten teams took part in the tournament, representing hospitals and polyclinics, the ambulance service, the medical college, and the Centre for the Prevention and Control of AIDS. All participants united to demonstrate that health care is about more than treatment — it is about solidarity, strength and mutual support.
Throughout the event, information booths and counselling zones were available. Participants and visitors could learn what HIV is, how it is transmitted and not transmitted, take a free and confidential rapid HIV test, and dispel common myths that still exist in society.
At the closing ceremony, Zh. Demeyev, Acting Head of the Regional Centre for the Prevention and Control of AIDS, thanked everyone for their participation, saying:
“Many ask: why volleyball? Because it’s a team sport — every player matters, and without mutual support and trust, victory is impossible.Working on HIV is the same — no one can do it alone. It takes a team: doctors, psychologists, civil society organizations, and of course, people themselves who are ready to take care of their health.And sport, after all, is about active living, health, movement, communication and belonging. These are the things that help us live longer and happier.”
more »November 24, 2025
In Aktau, an open para-arm wrestling tournament for youth and teenagers was held in honor of December 1 — World AIDS Day (World Day Against HIV)An open para-arm wrestling tournament among young people and teenagers took place in Aktau. The sports event was organized to mark December 1 — World Day Against HIV. Supported by the Aktau City Department of Physical Culture and Sports, the competition brought together about 40 athletes.
One of the participants was Akbobek Eskendir. The 15-year-old athlete has been practicing arm wrestling for two years. Thanks to his thorough preparation, he won first place in today’s competition.
“My father encouraged me to try this sport. He told me to go and participate. At first, I didn’t think I would achieve much since I wasn’t very interested. But after taking part in competitions, I developed a passion for the sport. Since then, my character has changed — I’ve become more open. Now my goal is to win first place at the next World Championship,” says athlete Akbobek Eskendir.
About 40 athletes participated in the tournament. All showed intense and active performance. By demonstrating their athletic skills, participants also received information about important social issues. Specialists from the Mangystau Regional Center for HIV Prevention highlighted that the event was aimed at supporting young people and preventing the virus.
“We believe we brought joy to the children. We wish them good health, success, and to become champions. Currently, from November 10 to December 10, a large campaign is underway in our region. Various events are being held across the region to prevent HIV infection,” said Zarina Berkalieva, head of the department at the Mangystau Regional Center for HIV Prevention.
The winners of the tournament were awarded special diplomas and memorable gifts. The organizers plan to continue implementing such projects in the future.
more »November 24, 2025
Awareness Campaigns at the “Pana” Social Adaptation CentreOn 21 November, specialists from the Almaty Centre for the Prevention and Control of AIDS held two information and awareness sessions titled “Get Tested! Know! Live!” at the “Pana” Social Adaptation Centre.
Medical professionals provided participants with information on HIV transmission routes, prevention measures, and modern approaches to HIV prevention. More than 250 people received accurate, first-hand information, had the opportunity to ask questions, and received professional counselling and clarifications.
Specialists also emphasized the importance of regular HIV testing. During the campaign, particular attention was given to reducing HIV-related stigma. Health experts highlighted that modern antiretroviral therapy enables people living with HIV to lead full, active, and long lives, and that early diagnosis is key to effective treatment and preventing new HIV transmissions.
All those interested were able to take a free rapid HIV test, with results available within 20 minutes.
The campaign took place as part of the information initiative dedicated to World AIDS Day, under the UNAIDS theme “From Challenges to Change: Accelerating the HIV Response.” The activities will continue through 10 December.
more »November 24, 2025
Working with Key Populations: HIV Prevention at the Talgar Mental Health CentreTo mark World AIDS Day, the Almaty Regional Mental Health Centre in Talgar, Almaty Region, held an information and awareness campaign under the theme “From Challenges to Change: Accelerating the HIV Response.”
The event brought together T. Myrzagulova, epidemiologist from the Almaty Regional AIDS Centre, and social workers from the non-governmental organization “Doverie Plus” — K. Dukhanin, N. Kamarova and S. Kabzhalelov.
The campaign aimed to disseminate accurate information about HIV among people receiving inpatient treatment at the mental health centre — a population considered part of key groups in the HIV response. Participants were informed about HIV prevention measures, modes of transmission, and engaged in discussions about reducing stigma and fear associated with HIV. The session featured an open conversation, awareness-raising activities and practical guidance presented in an accessible and clear format.
Social workers from “Doverie Plus,” who are themselves people living with HIV, shared their personal experiences openly, making an important contribution to the discussion. Their stories helped participants gain a new perspective on living with HIV, better understand the impact of stigma, and recognize the importance of community support and access to health care services.
Such information sessions are a vital step toward dispelling misconceptions about HIV and promoting understanding, support, and tolerance in society — especially when working with key populations.
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