The Department of Community Safety and Transport Management in collaboration with Shout It Now(NGO) , hosted an informative outreach program on HIV and AIDS. The prevention awareness is a build up for World AIDs day, which is commemorated on annually on the 1st of December.
The event aimed to raise awareness about HIV, TB, and sexual activities, with a focus on promoting regular testing, taking of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).
It was necessary to have the collaboration because both the department and the NGO play a pivotal role in the health care of the employees and the general society.
Integrated Employee Health and Wellness (IEHW) Sub-directorate as the custodian of HIV and STI management Policy , we are responsible to make sure that this programme is implemented, and nationally we are required as a department to fully participate in the build up for the World Aids day.
Furthermore, this build up is also to create a safe space for the affected and the infected in the working environment” said Ms Lephoi.
Mr. Hlubi Hashe, the Outreach Officer from Shout It Now said, “We specialize in HIV prevention amongst youth, and we engage adults as they are the gatekeepers. We need them to play a role in helping in promoting HIV prevention within the society. We as Shout It Now intend to create a society where young individuals are HIV-free by 2030, this is achievable if the community commit to play this pivotal role with us in promoting a society that is free from HIV prevalence. We need to work together to curb also GBVF. There is hope, and we can make a difference.”said Mr Hashe.
A candle-lighting and a moment of silence to honor those who have lost their lives to HIV and Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF).
The department is committed to pioneering responsible health practices, ensuring that the employees not only shine in service delivery but also in a healthy lifestyle stewardship.
