Manni:Gnagna Approximately 400 young people participated in the launch of the 2026 edition of the National Reproductive Health Week (SNSR+) at the Manni Departmental High School, which featured a conference on the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and viral hepatitis among adolescents.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the event was presided over by Emmanuel Tindano, President of the Special Delegation (PDS) of Manni, and included officials from technical services, traditional and religious leaders, and representatives of civil society. The Manni Health District is led by District Medical Officer Dr. Lacina Traoré.
The SNSR+ event, scheduled from October 26 to November 1, 2026, across the national territory, aims to accelerate the reduction of maternal, neonatal, and infant mortality through the integration of reproductive health services. At the opening, the principal of the departmental high school, Maldjoa Lompo, welcomed the authorities and encouraged student participation in the discussions.
PDS President Emmanuel Tindano advised the youth on making informed decisions regarding sexuality and reproductive health, highlighting the significance of family planning. He encouraged students to share the knowledge gained with their families and communities. The event also featured a guided tour of stands showcasing various contraceptive methods presented by the head of reproductive health for the district, Gambo Boukaré.
The main conference, led by Dr. Adama Bahadio, addressed the transmission modes of STIs, HIV, and viral hepatitis, their consequences, and preventive measures, especially within schools. Discussions emphasized protection methods, transmission possibilities without symptoms, testing methods, and post-unprotected sex actions, stressing the need for reliable information to encourage preventive behaviors among youth.
Nationally, the 2025 SNSR+ data reported 198 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, 18 neonatal deaths per 1,000 live births, and 48 infant and child deaths per 1,000 live births. By 2030, goals include reducing maternal mortality to under 70 deaths per 100,000 live births and neonatal mortality to 18 deaths per 1,000 live births. The Manni Health District aims to enhance adolescents' understanding of STIs, HIV, and viral hepatitis while rallying families, schools, and community leaders to support prevention and reproductive health promotion.