Empowering South Africa's Youth: A health Initiative for a brighter future

As South Africa commemorates Youth Month, the Matthew Goniwe Clinic reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young people through a health campaign.

On Youth Day, Monday, July 16, the clinic, in collaboration with key health partners, hosted its inaugural sexual health edition at the Desmond Tutu Hall in Makhaza.

The campaign was designed to educate and empower youth through accessible health and wellness services.

Under the theme "Healthy Youth, Healthy Nation - Empowering Community Through Wellness," this initiative provided essential, free, and youth-friendly health services while celebrating the strength, resilience, and leadership of young people.

Nondyebo Sampempe, the facility’s event organiser, said that the event was more than just a health drive; it served as a platform for empowerment, informed decision-making, and redefining support for young people's health.

“We primarily invited young people aged 12 to 25 because this group often hesitates to visit clinics. Even when we reach out to schools, they tend to remain unresponsive. Today, we included sports activities, knowing that sport is something they enjoy. In this process, we empower them with knowledge,” she said.

Ms Sampempe cautioned young people about neglecting their health.

“They are playing with fire," adding that there was a concerning trend of substance abuse among youth.

She urged them to refrain from unhealthy activities.

“While they may enjoy these activities now, they must consider the long-term consequences on their health. This event is a platform for them to learn, and we encourage them to visit health facilities to check their health status,” she said.

Throughout the event, representatives from various organisations stressed the importance of health awareness among young people.

TB advocate Good Mathanda from TB Proof said that the day provided an excellent opportunity for health organisations to educate and empower young people.

He urged young people to adhere to their treatment plans, addressing the stigma surrounding tuberculosis (TB).

“Stigma hinders young people from making the right choices. We know that TB carries a negative stigma, and many young individuals fear coming forward or taking their prescribed medication. We encourage them to focus on their health and disregard any negative perceptions,” he said.

Task, a clinical research organisation, also called on youth to participate in their research initiatives. The organisation’s Simo Sithandathu reassured young people that, should they participate, they would be working with a team of experienced doctors and scientists to deliver high-quality clinical research solutions.

Participating organisations included the Aurum Institute, Task Clinical Trials, Gap, Soul City Institute, TB Care, Sanco, the South African Police Services, and the local Community Policing Forum.

The services offered on the day included:

• Family planning and PrEP
• Cheka Impilo screenings (HIV, TB, STIs, hypertension, diabetes)
• TB Screening
• HIV Testing Services (HTS)
• Wellness checks (blood pressure, glucose, BMI)