BUTTERWORTH- The AIDS Healthcare Foundation South Africa (AHF SA) took health education and prevention services directly to the people of Butterworth at the Fingoland Taxi and Bus Rank on 16th October in a campaign that brought prevention, testing and treatment to one of the town’s busiest hubs.
Through community engagement, awareness was raised about syphilis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), with emphasis on regular testing, early diagnosis, timely treatment and correct and consistent condom use.
HIV and syphilis testing services were provided on-site, helping community members take proactive steps toward knowing their health status.
The testing, a total of 11,520 condoms were distributed, comprising 5,760 ICON condoms and 5,760 LOVE condoms.
However, AHF SA said the campaign revealed a critical lesson about access.
“People want to test but they cannot always leave work to go to the clinic. When we meet them at the rank we remove that barrier. That is why we must take health to the streets,” AHF said.
But challenges remain, particularly around stigma and condom use.”
We still see people who are shy to collect condoms or to test in public. Our message is clear which is protecting yourself is not something to be ashamed of. Knowing your status is power,” AHF added.
In addition to that, AHF said the success of the 26 tests conducted shows the model works and should be expanded to more public spaces.The intervention at Fingoland Rank proves that community-based outreach is effective.
The 26 individuals tested and the thousands of condoms distributed reflect a community willing to take charge of its health when services are brought closer to them.
For AHF, this is not just a once-off event but a blueprint for building a healthier, more resilient Butterworth.
IMAGE: Supplied
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