Nokuthela Ngwenya CHC launches youth-focused health initiative

Nokuthela Ngwenya Community Health Centre (CHC) in Dunnottar is set to introduce Adolescent and Youth Friendly Services (AYFS), a programme designed to address health needs such as family planning of young people aged 10 to 24.

It aims to overcome barriers like staff treatment and long waiting times commonly encountered by young people seeking healthcare at clinics.

Sister Anele Mthembu, a key advocate for AYFS, explains that the program achieves its goals by establishing a dedicated “youth zone” within the facility.

“This zone offers a safe space where young individuals can access healthcare without fear of judgment,” said Mthembu.

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In collaboration with Soul City and Wits RHI, Nokuthula Ngwenya CHC will officially launch the AYFS program on June 21.

The highlight of the launch will be the introduction of the youth zone that will be operating from Monday to Thursday between 14:00 and 15:00, and on Fridays from 07:00 to 13:00.

Designated as happy hours, these times will allow young people within the specified age group to bypass the regular queues and promptly receive the services they need.

The services provided will include:
• Family planning
• Pregnancy testing and option counseling
• HIV testing, Pre-exposure prophylaxis (Prep), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation
• Sexual education
• Mental health support
• Treatment for minor ailments

The launch event will start at 09:00 and continue until 14:00 at Nokuthula Ngwenya CHC.