The African Youth Development Fund, in partnership with the Merafong City Local Municipality, hosted a major Social and Behaviour Change activation in the West Rand on Friday, 28 November, at the Khutsong Ext 4 Multipurpose Centre.

The event formed part of a broader community-based effort to strengthen healthy behaviours, support families, and raise awareness around HIV prevention, treatment, and psychological well-being.

The activation highlighted the Social and Behaviour Change programmes, including the Family Matters Programme, which equips parents and pre-adolescent children with communication and life skills that strengthen family relationships and promote safer decision-making.

The event also showcased The Rock Programme, which supports traditional leaders and sex workers through focused education, empowerment, and psychological support.

This activation coincided with the Merafong City Local Municipality’s launch of the National 1.1 Million Campaign, a government-led initiative in partnership with organisations such as UNAIDS. The campaign focuses on the 1.1 million South Africans who know their HIV-positive status but are currently not on treatment. Its goal is to reconnect these individuals to healthcare services, emphasising treatment adherence and long-term wellness.

The event aimed to reach a total of 470 people, comprising 70 VIPs and stakeholders — including councillors, MMCs and the Executive Mayor — and 400 community members. This target was significantly exceeded, with 450 community members in attendance and 104 VIPs and stakeholders, reflecting strong community interest and support.

A key highlight of the event was the celebration of youth talent across Merafong City. Children performed dance and poetry pieces, while local performers from Khutsong and a vocalist from Fochville entertained the crowd. The display of artistic talent underscored the need for continued support in skills development, with the belief that nurturing such abilities can open significant opportunities for young people in the district.

In alignment with the SBC programme and the Cheka Impilo initiative — which promotes regular screening for HIV, STIs, and TB — the Department of Health provided two mobile clinics on-site. Community members accessed HIV testing, STI screening, TB checks, and general medical services. Elderly residents were also able to collect medication and receive routine care.

Additionally, stakeholders in the fight against substance abuse formed part of the activation, including MASAC, the Civil Society Forum, and various municipal partners. Their participation ensured a holistic offering of health, wellness, and support services for residents.

The event demonstrated the power of collaboration between civil society, government, and the community. It successfully created awareness, connected residents to essential services, and showcased the strengths, talents, and resilience of the people of Merafong City.