TUT and Tshwane Metro AIDS Council host multisectoral response indaba

TUT and the Tshwane Metro AIDS Council hosted a three-day indaba to strengthen the multisectoral response to HIV, TB and STIs and address prevention treatment access and community support.

Mohau Mthethwa from the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) Civil Society Forum (CSF). Mohau Mthethwa, representing the South African National AIDS Council Civil Society Forum, emphasised the importance of youth participation during the three-day HIV TB and STIs Multisectoral Response Indaba.

Representatives from different regions of Tshwane convened at the Tshwane University of Technology’s Ga-Rankuwa Campus to discuss challenges in addressing HIV TB and STIs.

Participants raised concerns about limited access to information on prevention and treatment as well as the availability of non-governmental organisations that offer support and policies that protect or restrict affected individuals.

Mthethwa added that engaging young people in discussions about HIV, TB and STIs helps to reduce stigma and promotes prevention methods such as the use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis.

“Talking to the youth in the language they understand is important. It makes them feel included in the conversation,” he said. He also encouraged parents and guardians to create open environments when discussing sexual health and the consequences of unsafe practices.

Phumzile Sapula from the Law and Human Rights sector. Phumzile Sapula from the Law and Human Rights sector, explained that her team assists individuals who experience discrimination in clinics and hospitals.

“We are not lawyers but we can help people who have experienced bias from medical facilities,” Sapula said. She added that the team supports people through complaint and legal processes.

Kgothatso Moloto, founder of Voice It In Action, highlighted the importance of community work through the organisation’s Back-To-School campaign, which provides stationery and free hairstyles to learners to boost confidence for the academic year. Moloto said funding helps non-governmental organisations expand their reach and support communities.

The indaba aimed to strengthen collaboration across Tshwane to promote inclusive health initiatives and support efforts to address HIV, TB and STIs in communities.

Kgothatso Moloto from Voice it in Action. Ntokozo Zwane from Voice it in Action.