In absolute numbers, South Africa has a higher number of cases of HIV than any other country – 7.6 million. There is a huge gender disparity in infection rates, as women are twice as likely to have HIV.
Lack of education and job opportunities, violence against women, and stigma are amongst the factors that drive this inequality.
KwaZulu-Natal Province has the highest HIV burden – this is where our partner, Crossroads, works with ladies like Noeline.
Here, Noeline tells her story.
“You cannot have HIV in the community and live peacefully. You will always get people who are afraid to talk to you and insult you. Life before the Crossroads Support Group was stressful.
I passed Matric at night school and my dream was to be a nurse, but it never came through because of the HIV challenges.
At the Crossroads HIV Support Group, it was so easy to step out of the shame and join the group because Sister Lewazo is so encouraging and open about her status. I realized that I cannot keep quiet about my status. I want to be the one who prevents others from getting HIV."
"I have learnt there is nothing wrong with being HIV+, it is not a death sentence. I just have to adjust my attitude and not shirk on taking my medication. Using condoms is the cheapest method to prevent HIV, as well as STIs and early pregnancy. You shouldn’t engage in sex if you do not know your partner well.
You should report all gender-based violence to the police. Do not keep quiet about your situation even if they don’t believe you! Women in our community are not given much of a voice - but I have learnt that women are strong, we bring value to the table. "
"In our group, we are like family. I can share all my worries because I receive emotional support that really encourages me.
We do soup kitchen three days a week for the community at the Crossroads Hope Centre. I have learnt how to take care of others, especially the elderly in the community that attend our GOGOs* gatherings.
I believe I can achieve my dreams. I only wish to be of help to others and protect others from getting HIV.”
[*granny in Zulu]
