“TALK-TO-ME” Launch—A Children’s Appeal
Takalani Sesame began with a simple idea: create a place where all South African children, especially those who have limited access to education, could feel safe and learn about themselves and the world in which they live. Takalani Sesame reaches millions of South African boys and girls through television, radio and literature in children’s own home languages, especially in rural areas.
In November 2004, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) proudly launched a new program called “Talk-to-me,” featuring South Africa’s most popular AIDS orphan, a 5-year-old Muppet named Kami. Kami is joined by celebrity and ordinary friends urging the country’s grown-ups to talk to children about HIV/AIDS.
Kami was created two years ago through collaboration between USAID’s education program, Sesame Workshop and the South African Department of Education. USAID is gratified to have been part of the challenging birthing process for Kami as she teaches children tolerance and acceptance for people living with HIV and AIDS.
“Helping South Africans cope positively with AIDS is one of the United States government’s top priorities. ’’
Talk-to-me takes AIDS education for children and educators a step further to break the undesirable culture of silence at home, in schools and in churches. Research shows that families, parents, caregivers and teachers feel isolated and are uncomfortable talking about sexual and other personal issues with children. Talk-to-me givesadults ideas of how to speak openly and honestly with children. USAID supports Talk-to-me because it is a call to ALL South Africans to communicate with children about protecting themselves from HIV and to live with its effects.
“Helping South Africans cope positively with AIDS is one of the United States government’s top priorities,” says USAID’s Deputy Mission Director, Denise Rollins. In 2002, President Bush established the Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, committing $15 billion to combat HIV and AIDS in 15 countries in the world, including $78.5 million for South Africa. These resources are being used for prevention, treatment, care and support activities throughout the country, working through a network of partners including the South African government.
USAID provided critical support needed to develop and launch Takalani and the international, award-winning HIV positive Muppet, Kami.
With continued collaboration among the key players and partners, including the South African Department of Education, SABC and corporate sponsor, Sanlam, Takalani Sesame is reaching high levels of relevant preschool education. The interactive learning experiences that make education materials come alive are now helping children and their families deal constructively with AIDS by talking about HIV together for perhaps the first time in their lives.
