Driving Youth Adherence Through Local Treatment Literacy Initiatives

EVATON, SOUTH AFRICA — In a vital effort to close the gap in youth health education, AFROCAB in South Africa successfully conducted a targeted Treatment Literacy Session for adolescents and young adults at Boikago Primary School in Evaton on June 12, 2026. The impactful session was co-facilitated alongside Community Health Workers (CHWs) from Levai Mbatha, bringing critical life-saving information directly to the community’s youth.

The interactive session broke down the basics of HIV, exploring the various modes of transmission, available treatment options, and navigating the practicalities of different medication suppliers and packaging. A central focus of the day was the paramount importance of adherence, with facilitators underscoring that strictly adhering to treatment directly translates into long-term health and well-being.

Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, the session openly discussed strategic, personalized ways to build unique adherence plans tailored to individual daily schedules and needs. Facilitators also shared their own lived experiences, illustrating healthy lifestyles and framing positive living as an achievable, lifelong commitment to treatment.

Crucially, the session addressed the sustainability of community care. Organizers emphasized that powerful support groups do not require substantial funding or catering; rather, their true value lies in the simple, cost-free act of peers gathering to share similar challenges and brainstorm solutions together.

Reflecting on the success of the initiative, AFROCAB South Africa Country Lead Nyiko Kubai emphasized the long-term vision of these community interventions.

"Treatment literacy sessions are critical for adolescents and young adults as they have a measurable impact in improving understanding of HIV treatment options and the importance of adherence," Kubai stated. "Ultimately, they promote a good lifestyle of living positively with HIV."