Local health transformation and non-profit organisation, Beyond Zero, together with MIET Africa, put gender-based violence in South Africa in the spotlight, with the launch of the #SAYIT campaign at the Gelvandale Sports Grounds on Saturday, November 7.
The campaign is aimed at providing adolescent girls and young women with a basket of services that will enhance their health, psychosocial and socioeconomic well-being. The initiative is also aimed at decreasing HIV incidence, teenage pregnancy and gender-based violence and increase retention in school and economic opportunities.
Beyond Zero, together with the Department of Health and stakeholders, are about bringing change, building active and responsible girls and women when it comes to their future and health.
“Adolescent girls and young women are changing the narrative and destroying shame around HIV and needing condoms or lubes.
“We want a generation of adolescent girls and young women to experience interventions that are structured, age-appropriate and evidence-based to support the evolving, unique emotional and physical developmental needs of AGYW’s in South Africa,” said Sivu Siwisa, communications manager for Beyond Zero.
Several sub-recipient clinics are on board to provide the required services – including HIV testing and support, family planning education, trauma counselling, motivation, emotional support and safe centres.
They operate in several areas nationwide, including Nelson Mandela Bay health sub-district C.
