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The Eastern Cape Department of Health held a vibrant HIV Youth Indaba on 25 November 2025 at the LoveLife Kwanobuhle Youth Centre. The event brought together young people from Kariega and Port Elizabeth for health education, outreach, and on-site services.
What Happened?
The Youth Indaba delivered learning, screenings, and interactive sessions.
Young people received clear guidance on HIV, AIDS, TB, and STIs. Facilitators demonstrated the correct use of condoms and led open discussions on healthy relationships and prevention.
Major stakeholders, including Soul City Institute, Eastern Cape AIDS Council, Eastern Cape Institute, LoveLife, Ipas, Sustainable Innovative Foundation, Red Cross, and TAC, powered the program.
Participants took part in group activities designed to break stigma and improve understanding of sexual health. Many also accessed HIV testing, TB screening, and prevention tools at the venue.
One youth facilitator said the event helped clear myths, answer real questions, and give young people the confidence to protect their health.
Official Response
Eastern Cape Health officials praised the strong turnout and community support.
“This event shows how powerful youth-centred health education can be,” an official said. “When young people understand prevention and treatment, communities become safer and healthier.”
Partner organisations echoed the message, emphasizing ongoing collaboration and follow-up programs across the metro.
Community Impact
The Indaba made a strong impact across Kariega and neighbouring towns.
Young people are left with practical knowledge about prevention, treatment, and living positively with HIV.
Parents and guardians who attended said the initiative helped bridge communication gaps at home and encouraged responsible choices.
The department expects the program to support long-term behaviour change and improve access to health services for young people in surrounding communities.
