DELMAS – On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, residents of Victor Khanye gathered at the Botleng Ext 3 community for a campaign led by social workers. The campaign aimed to educate people about HIV/AIDS and Gender Based Violence (GBV). Thabo Madupela, a social worker from Delmas, emphasised gender-based violence in relationships. “Often, we are controlled by emotions, not recognising the gender inequality in a relationship. Some men believe that women should stay at home and do house chores instead of working. Such relationships or marriages are not healthy, and you may only be enjoying time together,” he emphasised.
Ofeila Manda, another social worker, explained the HIV/AIDS programmes. “Various programmes have been developed specifically to combat the spread of the HIV pandemic. These include Families Matter, Chommy, YOLO, Traditional Leaders, Men and Boys Championing Change, and Rock. When participating in these groups and campaigns, we are required to provide our identity numbers,” she explained.
Sihle Jwaqa, a representative of the LGBTQI group, shared his perspective on HIV/AIDS awareness. “The LGBTQI group must be knowledgeable about HIV/AIDS as much as they are about their roots. It’s important to regularly visit clinics. This illness can easily affect us in the LGBTQI group because we sustain cuts most of the time during sexual intercourse,” he commented.
