Gauteng intensifies teenage pregnancy and HIV prevention campaign

The Gauteng Department of Health has intensified its drive to prevent teenage pregnancy and HIV infections among young people.

The Teenage Pregnancy Awareness Campaign and Lenacapavir community activation was held at Tsakane Stadium on Friday, August 7, and was led by Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC Faith Mazibuko.

The campaign brought together learners, parents, educators, healthcare workers and community stakeholders to promote sexual and reproductive health information and youth-friendly health services.

Mazibuko stressed that preventing teenage pregnancy requires both girls and boys to be part of the conversation.

She encouraged young people to make informed decisions, access family planning services and take responsibility for their health and future.

The MEC also encouraged young people at increased risk of HIV infection to visit healthcare facilities for information and screening for Lenacapavir and other HIV prevention options.

Lenacapavir is a long-acting HIV prevention option administered twice a year to eligible HIV-negative people. It is currently available at 133 public healthcare facilities across Gauteng following its phased rollout in June.

Mazibuko also urged young people experiencing abuse or being forced into sexual activity to speak out and seek help.

The campaign offered youth-friendly health services, screenings, community dialogues and health education.

The department said it would continue working with schools, families and communities to reduce teenage pregnancy, prevent new HIV infections and support young people in making healthy and informed choices.