The workshop was designed to help participants enhance their roles in the health ministries of their churches.
Among the many challenges facing young Africans are health and health-related issues, including mental health, HIV, and sexual and reproductive health.
The workshop provided an overview of a health promoting church model and explored opportunities for youth action for a healthier Africa. It also provided examples of good practice in youth action on HIV prevention, including behavior change, treatment and care.
Through presentations and small group discussions, the youth explored ways to improve their personal health and the health of their communities. The participants were excited to receive the Health Promoting Churches publications which they say will be very useful as they try to implement what they have learned at the congress in their churches.
WCC staff also offered advice and support to congress delegates, listening to their concerns on health issues, including HIV, mental health and sexual and reproductive health.
Through individual confidential consultations, the young people found a safe space in which to express their concerns and explore the way forward.
Organized by the All Africa Conference of Churches, the All Africa Youth Congress, to be held from October 31 to November 5, focuses on organizing‘Continental youth campaign on African patriotism. Another of its goals is to raise awareness of existing potential and opportunities that would inspire the use of talents and gifts to build a prosperous continent.
More than 1,000 young people, ages 15-35, from across Africa will attend the event, which is the first of its kind.
