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Wits RHI

Empowering Futures: Responding to the HIV Epidemic Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Africa

The recent webinar, “Empowering Futures: Responding to the HIV Epidemic Among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Africa,” brought together thought leaders and experts to tackle the urgent challenge of HIV prevention among one of the continent’s most vulnerable populations—adolescent girls and young women (AGYW). With a focus on choice, access, and community-led support, the session underscored the need for integrated approaches in the fight against HIV.

Scaling Oral PrEP and Delivering PrEP Choice

Nicolette Naidoo, Programme Head of Implementation Science at Wits RHI, opened the webinar with a presentation on scaling Oral PrEP and ensuring the delivery of PrEP choice. Drawing on key insights from the DREAMS Program (Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe), Nicolette highlighted the importance of meeting AGYW where they are, both physically and socially, to maximize the impact of HIV prevention strategies. She stressed that to effectively curb new HIV infections, it is essential to offer AGYW choices in prevention methods, particularly around PrEP.

Key takeaways from her presentation included:

  • Differentiated Service Delivery: Tailoring services to meet AGYW’s diverse needs based on their location and resources, such as mobile clinics and schools, while creating safe spaces.
  • Enabling Policy Environment: Policies like the Integrated School Health Policy ensure AGYW have access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, including PrEP, within school settings.
  • Integrated Services: A holistic approach is needed to address AGYW’s vulnerability to HIV, poor SRH, mental health challenges, and gender-based violence (GBV), offering comprehensive support.
  • PrEP Choice and Access: Expanding options like oral PrEP and the Dapivirine vaginal ring gives AGYW the power to choose the best prevention method, improving uptake and health outcomes.

Nicolette concluded her presentation with a compelling call to action: “We can’t be the generation that ends new HIV infections without giving choice and access.” – Professor Saiqa Mullick emphasizing the crucial role of integrated service models and community engagement in achieving health equity for AGYW.

Addressing the Epidemic through a Broader Lens

Phinah Kodisang, CEO of the Soul City Institute NPC and Board Chair for Tiko Africa, brought a broader social perspective to the discussion, emphasising the need for a multifaceted approach to addressing the epidemic. She highlighted that the HIV response must extend beyond healthcare, incorporating:

  • Education: Initiatives like the Education Plus Initiative help keep girls in school, reducing their HIV risk. Education serves as both a right and a protective factor, empowering young women to make decisions about their bodies and lives.
  • Healthcare Access: Comprehensive sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, including HIV testing and prevention, are vital for reducing HIV rates among AGYW.
  • Economic Empowerment: Economic independence reduces AGYW’s vulnerability to HIV by lessening reliance on transactional sex.
  • Advocacy and Policy: Safeguarding AGYW’s rights through policies like the Maputo Protocol empowers them to protect themselves from HIV.
  • Community Support: Engaging communities to address gender-based violence (GBV) and discrimination creates safe, supportive spaces where AGYW can access services and thrive

The Power of Integrated, Multi-Sectoral Responses

The webinar underscored the importance of integrated, multi-sectoral responses that provide AGYW with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to protect themselves from HIV. From differentiated service delivery models to advocacy for young women’s rights, the experts emphasised that collaboration and innovation are key to ensuring AGYW across Africa have access to the full range of HIV prevention options.