THE just ended three day PATA Summit Hub that was held in Bulawayo from 21 to 23 November 2022 highlighted some of key issues that young people from various societal groups face in their quest to access HIV and Sexual Reproductive Health (SHR) services.
By Michael Gwarisa
The three -day conference drew participants from young people and representatives of networks for young people in their diversity. Various presentations were made by various panelist from across the globe and discussions were around the theme Ending AIDS in Children, Adolescence and Young People- a Roadmap to 2030.
Speaking at the summit, Nyombikayise Ncube from Zimbabwe Young Positives (Zy+) said there is need to involve young people from the grassroots and vulnerable communities when developing programs and initiatives targeted at young people.
Let’s start from the Grassroots level in the Global Alliance , Using the bottom up system where communities are more meaningful engaged as they are the ones that face the most when it comes to HIV , AIDS, TB and Cancer,” said Ncube.
One of the key issues that was discussed from the session was the issue of disclosure where young people highlighted how critical disclousure was in the attainment of the 2030 goals.
“It is necessary for disclosure to be done at an early age, considering the fact that young people are now indulging in sexual activities at an early age, with the case of the trending 9-year-old who got pregnant as evidence of young people being sexually active at a young age.”
The young people also noted that disclosure was not a one-day event but rather takes time and needs constant repetition especially to a child born positive.
A question-and-answer segment was held where a chat box was also utilised to entertain questions from the various in country hubs.
Young people living with HIV and networks that work with young people with particular interest in the young key populations which includes LGBTQIA, sex workers and people who use drugs were also targeted by the summit.
The summit also noted that there was need to build momentum and localise the global alliance to end AIDS in children, adolescent and young people.
Another major issue that was raised was the meaningful engagement of young people in their diversity in acting in ending AIDS by 2030. To have an impact towards HIV, young people need to be involved, take responsibility of their actions, and take a leading role in going towards the goal. They mentioned that there is noting for us s young people without us and in their diversity as they are a diverse group with diverse needs.
“We should ensure meaningful participation of young people in decision making processes,” said Nozipho Mukabeta one of the participants at the summit.
The aspect of mental health was also highlighted as an issue of major concern as most young people are currently facing mental health challenges, and this has led to young people defaulting on their medication.
“Mental health issues pose as a threat to HIV treatment and care as also the health care providers also face mental health issues. It was highlighted that even the peer supporters do face mental health issues which will make it hard for them to support other peers. Mental health awareness and refreshers is needed to ensure that young people have healthy seeking behaviours, and that health care providers and supporters support without negative attitude from mental health issue which will end up affecting service delivery. “
