Story by Providence Maraneli
THE National AIDS Council (NAC) is stepping up efforts to reduce new HIV infections by empowering adolescent girls with knowledge and life skills. Guided by the Ndebele adage “sigoqwa simanzi”, meaning “catch them young”, the initiative focuses on nurturing informed, confident young women who can make responsible health and social decisions.
In Masendu Village, Bulilima District, Matabeleland South, 50 girls, including Andile Dube, are part of the Sista to Sista programme, which provides a safe space for open discussions on HIV prevention and community health.
As they converge under a tree shade for a no-holds-barred discussion on HIV transmission in the area, there is a sense of responsibility among girls to end the scourge.
“We feel it is our responsibility, as the young generation, we are the drivers and if we stop, then everything stops,” Mentee, Andile Dube said.
“I have been empowered, I know what I ought to do so that I do not get infected with HIV,” a benefificiary of the programme said.
“We have been empowered, we do projects at home so that we do not get enticed by diasporians when they come,” another added.
Sista to Sista is one of the many programmes in Matabeleland South Province that have brought hope to hundreds of girls, the vulnerable and victims of the HIV pandemic.
“We are seeing a positive change, especially when the sessions are being done by one of their own who is their age, because they can relate, they can use the same language, and they understand the responsibility,” Bulilima District AIDS Coordinator, Mr Ronald Hanyane said.
