The uMkhanyakude District Municipality convened its District AIDS Council meeting today, 14 August 2026, at the Council Chamber under the leadership of His Worship the Mayor, Cllr Siphile Mdaka.
The meeting brought together government departments, civil society, traditional leadership, and stakeholders to review progress on HIV, TB, teenage pregnancy and GBVF programmes across the district.
Key updates included the rollout of the new Lenacapavir 2-dose HIV prevention injection, strengthening of DAC, LACs and WACs, and the 2026 Youth Revitalisation Programme. The District noted good progress in condom distribution and overall performance, with a 3.2% HIV positivity rate. However, challenges remain in Big 5 Hlabisa and uMhlabuyalingana municipalities regarding TB loss to follow-up and late reporting.
Stakeholders raised concerns around high rates of teenage pregnancy, GBVF, and the 1.1 million gap in reaching men with health services. Resolutions included intensifying male-focused campaigns, expanding _Isibaya Samadoda_, and strengthening partnerships with Home Affairs, Education, Social Development and Health.
All reports presented were adopted. The Municipality calls on all stakeholders to work together to achieve HIV, TB and AIDS targets by 2028.
