LIMPOPO – The International Health Programmes South Africa (IHPS) is expanding HIV prevention and support services across Mopani district to reduce new HIV infections and improve access to healthcare.

From Columbia University to six provinces

IHPS is a non-profit organisation established in 2010 following the transition of the ICAP South Africa programme from Columbia University.

It now operates in six provinces, strengthening health systems through partnerships and programme implementation.

A programme built around access and dignity

In Mopani, IHPS is funded by the Global Fund through Aurum to implement its men who have sex with men (MSM) programme across all five sub-districts.

The initiative aims to improve access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment and support while addressing barriers such as stigma and discrimination.

Services include HIV testing, same-day initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), peer-led outreach, mobile services, sexually transmitted infection (STI) and tuberculosis (TB) screening, mental health support and risk-reduction counselling.

Thousands reached since launch

The organisation also trains healthcare workers to provide inclusive, respectful care to MSM and transgender and gender-diverse people.

Since launching the programme in Mopani, IHPS has reached 2 161 MSM with HIV prevention services. Of these, 1 487 have been tested for HIV, while 34 received support related to human rights violations and psychosocial wellbeing.

Condoms and lubricants distributed districtwide

The programme has also distributed 24 400 MAX condoms, 3 312 Cubid (Me1st) condoms and 4 600 lubricants across the district to promote safer sexual practices.