'Higher rate of HIV infection in women'
The BroadReach Group is shining the spotlight on a group of people who made it their life's mission to bring down HIV prevalence, especially among young women.
HIV / Pexels: Miguel Á. Padriñán
CAPE TOWN - On Friday, marked International Women's Day.
It is celebrated annually on the 8th of March in many countries across the world. And this year the theme is 'Inspire Inclusion'.
The day is dedicated to recognising women for their achievements and dedication to empowering marginalised communities through education, healthcare, and socio-economic development.
The BroadReach Group has decided to use the opportunity to shine the spotlight on a group of people who made it their life's mission to bring down HIV prevalence, especially among young women.
Clinical Specialist for HIV and Paediatrics at BroadReach Health Development Dr Ziyanda Makaba said due to a complex set of factors, women and girls accounted for more than 60% of all new HIV infections in sub-Saharan Africa in 2022.
However, she said the tide is turning as more young girls receive support from individuals like community ambassadors also referred to as 'Influencers for Good'.
Their job is to encourage friends and neighbours to take preventative measures against HIV, to get tested and to start taking antiretrovirals if they are positive.
Makaba said community ambassadors play a vital role in reaching the goal of ending new HIV infections by 2030.
"They do such great work in identifying and supporting high-risk adolescent girls and young women. They link them to HIV testing services. Those who test HIV negative, are linked to preventative care, while those who test HIV positive are linked to counselling services and they are supported and enrolled in the ARV programme."
Makaba said the data shows that influencer interventions, coupled with other community health interventions at clinics have resulted in huge improvements in HIV rates in Mpumalanga.