BZ Entertainment, a prominent Drama and Film Society, has achieved a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to promote HIV awareness and fight stigma in Nagaland. In partnership with the Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS), the organization has successfully concluded its 100th Street Play show, a key component of its HIV awareness campaign that has spanned the state.
The initiative, which began on November 17, 2023, at Super-Market in Dimapur, has traveled through multiple districts, reaching its climax on November 19, 2024, in Kiphire District. Over this extensive tour, BZ Entertainment performed 10 impactful Street Plays in each participating district, educating diverse audiences on HIV transmission, prevention, and the importance of testing.
The Street Plays were specifically designed to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS while addressing the crucial need for HIV testing and the fight against societal stigma. Working closely with NSACS, the campaign also included on-site HIV testing and counseling through the Mobile Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (MICTC) team, ensuring that attendees not only received vital information but were also offered confidential testing and support.
To further support ongoing access to HIV services, BZ Entertainment displayed contact details for District Programme Officers (DPOs) at each show. This initiative provided attendees with direct access to resources and guidance, empowering them to take charge of their health and seek further assistance if needed.
The completion of the 100th show underscores the dedication of BZ Entertainment and NSACS in raising awareness and reducing stigma around HIV/AIDS in Nagaland. The campaign has reached key districts, including Dimapur, Kohima, Niuland, Chumoukedima, Tseminyu, Noklak, Kiphire, Peren, and Tuensang. Each show was met with positive community engagement, reflecting a growing commitment to addressing this pressing public health issue.
As the campaign progresses, BZ Entertainment plans to perform an additional 20 shows in two remaining districts, bringing the total number of performances to 120. These final shows will mark the completion of the project, further solidifying BZ Entertainment’s influential role in HIV education and awareness across Nagaland.