Many young girls in South Africa are facing the triple danger of HIV, teenage pregnancy and gender-based violence (GBV).
To empower girls through education, access to healthcare services and information, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) highlighted the serious challenges impacting the health and well-being of girls and young women during the International Day of the Girl Child, observed on 11 October.
Also, it was highligthed that exploitative intergenerational relationships, such as the “blesser syndrome”, heightens the vulnerability of girls to these three threats.
According to a report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef), 75% of new HIV infections in adolescents are among adolescent girls, and nearly one in four adolescent girls in relationships has experienced abuse.
“These factors are blocking their paths to success,” said Ngaa Murombedzi, AHF’s Southern Africa regional advocacy and policy manager.
In the Eastern Cape, for example, more than 4 000 girls aged 10 to 19 years have given birth since April this year.
Many drop out of school due to pregnancy, limiting their access to socio-economic opportunities.
“AHF believes that integrated approaches need to be prioritised in schools and communities to help girls make more informed decisions about their health and future,” stressed Sindisiwe Tom, AHF Gauteng youth coordinator.
Another worrying trend is the “blesser syndrome,” according to which older men (“blessers”) exploit young girls for sex in exchange for money or gifts, thus exposing them to HIV, sexual transmitted infections, and unplanned pregnancies.
This imbalance of power leaves girls with very little to no control over their sexual health and to negotiate for safer sex.
“In many communities, girls are pushed into these relationships due to poverty,” stated Lizo Dziba, prevention manager AHF Eastern Cape.
“We must intensify campaigns and raise awareness aimed at blessers to highlight the detrimental effects of this practice on their health and loved ones.”
Beyond sexual health, many girls also face mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, which often lead to risky social behaviours.
Visit GirlsAct.org for more information.
