The increase in numbers of urban youths spending their time on the internet in Malawi has spurred the introduction of a social network as a platform to help them fight the spread of HIV and AIDS.

Now through website IFEYO.com, youth in Malawi can access information on pertinent issues such as HIV and AIDS, culture and technological advancement.

Site administrator, Mr. Justin Malewezi Jnr. Says the move has been justified by statistics which show that youths and young people in Malawi urban locations spend most of their time on the Internet.

“Today, the youth use Internet in most of their daily lives as opposed to other forms of literature tools and as such the Internet could be the best forum to exchange ideas in the fight against HIV and AIDS,” said Mr. Malewezi.

Mr. Malewezi said the site will also provide an opportunity for students in boarding schools who are left out of what is happening beyond school boarders.

“A lot of students have cell phones which they can use to access the Internet. This gives them an opportunity to interact with friends outside,” he said.

Over 20,000 young people are expected to benefit from this platform.

Youth Development and Sports minister Dr. Lucius Kanyumba observed that the intervention was a tool that was also being used elsewhere such that it was important for Malawi youths not to lag behind.

IFEYO.com website is a wholly Malawian social networking platform designed as a peer-led and skill-building intervention project to tackle issues that affect Malawian youth such as HIV and AIDS.

The project is being funded by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to a tune of 3million Malawi Kwacha under the SISTA (Sisters Informing Sisters about Topics