Aids Conference sets up zone for substance use disorders

DURBAN University of Technology’s Urban Futures Centre (UFC) will host a Harm Reduction Networking Zone at the 21st International Aids Conference in Durban, from Monday 18 to Friday 22 July.

TB/HIV Care Association will partner in setting up and running this Zone. The Harm Reduction Networking Zone will be located in the Global Village of the Aids Conference at the Durban Exhibition Centre. There are three different types of activities that will take place at the Harm Reduction Networking Zone.

First, harm reduction services, including the provision of clean needles and syringes will be provided. A psychiatrist with a specialisation in substance use disorders will be able available to consult with delegates from the conference who are currently on Opioid Substitution Therapy medication, and assist with prescriptions if required. There will also be a range of talks and documentaries related to harm reduction and to drug use policy will take place every day in the Zone. There will be a ‘chill out’ zone for people who use drugs to meet with one another in a safe space, and to have coffee and something to eat. Information about drug use and harm reduction will be available at all times at the Zone.

Access to the Global Village at Durban Exhibition Centre is free. Doors open at 8.30am every day. The programme is available on request. Contact Professor Monique Marks on 084 403 3934, 031 373 2180 or email: moniquem@dut.ac.za