By Veronica Mrema
Adolescence is a stage full of change physically, emotionally, and mentally as children grow into youth and eventually adulthood.
It’s a time of curiosity, discovery, and new responsibilities, but also a period when many face pressures and influences that can lead some to risky behaviors, including early sexual activity and other harmful choices.
This situation often results in many young people contracting various communicable diseases, and for some, completely derailing their life plans.
In recent years, diagnostic and treatment services for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in Tanzania have made remarkable progress, saving the lives of those born with the condition.
Unlike in the past, when many children did not survive past the age of five, today they grow up, live well, start families, and achieve their dreams.
A large group of adolescents living with SCD clearly demonstrates the importance of education on self-awareness, self-care, confidence, and perseverance to reach their goals.
Within the premises of Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), more than 30 youths living with SCD attended a special class with their parents and guardians.
The session was organized by the Bone and Blood Foundation in collaboration with the Sickle Cell Disease Patients’ Community of Tanzania (SCDPCT) and sponsored by the Pierre Fabre Foundation.
"At this age, a young person develops understanding, grows mentally and physically, becomes self-aware, organizes their affairs, gains courage.
".., and has the right to love and be loved," said Dr. Hilda Tutuba while presenting on building a strong foundation of self-confidence and coping with stress.
"We know there are many challenges you face in society, including stigma, but do not give up. You must believe in yourselves, and parents, do not hesitate to praise your children when they do well," she advised.
Dr. Steven Lema emphasized that youths at this age need accurate information about reproductive health within the family (those around them daily).
"Instead of letting them seek information elsewhere, why not provide them with proper guidance? This is a reproductive-age group and the future workforce of the nation.
"Let us give accurate information and advise them to visit health facilities rather than leaving them to gather often inaccurate information from the streets," he said.
Alex Mazengo, a 63-year-old SCD warrior, encouraged the youths not to give up.
"Personally, I thank my mother for fighting until I reached this point. Today, my child is blessed to be free from SCD. I thank God, and I urge you not to lose hope," he emphasized.
At different times, parents of children living with SCD praised the initiative, saying the special class has been beneficial for their youths.
"Society still does not fully understand this disease. I personally visited traditional healers before, but once I went to the hospital and understood what was affecting my child.
"Today I make sure they receive proper care. I encourage focusing on studies, avoiding peer pressure, taking their medication, and attending clinics to ensure good health," said one father attending with his child.
Evetha Telesphory said, "What our doctors taught us today is very good and important."
Elizabeth Mayunga, a parent, said, "This is my first time attending such a session. My child faces adolescent challenges, and I came with them.
"Through this seminar, I clearly see they will gain awareness and learn things they didn’t know before. I also learned things I didn’t know.
"My child struggled up to grade seven but has changed since entering secondary school. I discovered their peer groups, talked to them, and monitored their friends.
".., but now my child is rebellious and refuses even to take medication. Yet from today’s class, I can see they have gained some knowledge and hopefully will continue to be called to such sessions to awaken them."
Daudi Magoli, a SCD warrior, said the session taught him a lot about SCD and reproductive health. "We face many challenges in society; stigma is high, there is a negative attitude.
".., and we are excluded from school and community activities, with people pointing fingers at us. Here, we were taught to accept ourselves and our condition to live well," he said.
Dr. Collin Kanza encouraged the youths to continue attending clinics and taking their medications for good health.
Bora, co-founder of the Bone and Blood Foundation, emphasized "I still attend my clinic regularly, and as you can see, I am doing well. I am not weak and can carry out my work effectively.
"Do not be weak. The world has no mercy fight to achieve your dreams. Children, listen, work on your goals and keep them in your mind; it will help you build your own families in the future."
Chapisha Maoni