Empowering adolescent girls and young women to thrive beyond HIV is not just a goal, it’s a commitment to shaping healthier futures, says Siphesihle Mbinyashe from Ubuhlebethu, a community based organisation in the Eastern Cape
Ubuhlebethu works with NACOSA on the My Journey Programme, funded by the Global Fund to help young women and girls access HIV prevention choices, health care, counselling, and support for their rights. All services are provided in safe, youth-friendly spaces where young people can get help and make healthy choices.
Ubuhlebethu was founded in 2016 to respond to the needs of children, adolescent girls, young women, and families affected by poverty, abuse, and HIV in the Eastern Cape. The organisation first started by caring for children who had been abused or abandoned. Over time, Ubuhlebethu grew its work to support the wider community. Today, it helps prevent HIV, TB, and other infections, supports people living with HIV and TB, and runs programmes that help girls, young people and women build healthier and stronger futures.
Using health education, community awareness, and activities through sports, arts, and culture, Ubuhlebethu strengthens access to health services and promotes healthier communities. The organisation aims to be a one-stop care centre that cares for young people in need and helps them grow into independent and confident members of society.
According to the recent health survey, many young people between the ages of 15-24 in the Eastern Cape face major gaps in HIV treatment. Some do not know their status, others know but are not on treatment. As an implementing partner for the My Journey Programme in Buffalo City, Ubuhlebethu is committed to provide youth-friendly health services and guidance to support young people in taking control of their health. The programme creates safe, non-judgemental spaces where young people can get advice, check their health, and receive testing for HIV, STIs, TB, and pregnancy.
It also gives them access to prevention options such as condoms, lube, HIV prevention medicine, contraception, and sexual health care. Through My Journey, young people can learn about their rights, access post-violence support, understand gender issues, reduce stigma, and have opportunities to speak out and influence change.
Ubuhlebethu uses its experience, local knowledge, and strong community connections to make sure that young people in Buffalo City have the support, care, and information they need to live healthier lives.
Find out more: Ubuhlebethu.org.za
