By 
In a concerted effort to safeguard the health and future of young people, the Gauteng Department of Health hosted a major community activation at Tsakane Stadium in Ekurhuleni on Friday, 07 August 2026.
The initiative combined a Teenage Pregnancy Awareness Campaign with an active community rollout for Lenacapavir, a novel HIV prevention option.
Led by Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Faith Mazibuko, the event gathered learners, parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders. The primary goal was to provide young people with comprehensive sexual and reproductive health information and connect them with youth-friendly healthcare services.
Engaging Young Men and Promoting Informed Choices
Addressing the crowd, MEC Mazibuko highlighted that tackling teenage pregnancy requires an inclusive approach that engages both young men and women.
“Teenage pregnancy does not only affect the girl child,” Mazibuko stated. “The boy child is also affected and must be part of the conversation. We want our young people to access the correct sexual and reproductive health information, make informed decisions and use the family planning and other health services available to them. Your education, health and future matter.”
Expanding Access to Lenacapavir
A central pillar of the activation was raising awareness for Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) designed for HIV prevention. Administered just twice a year to eligible, HIV-negative individuals, Lenacapavir offers a convenient complement to existing prevention methods for those at substantial risk of contracting HIV.
Since the province commenced its phased rollout of Lenacapavir in June, uptake has been encouraging. The treatment is currently available across 133 public healthcare facilities in Gauteng. Health officials at the event encouraged young people to visit local clinics for screening and to explore Lenacapavir alongside other family planning and preventative options.
A Firm Stance Against Gender-Based Violence
In addition to health education, MEC Mazibuko took the opportunity to address gender-based violence (GBV) and coercive sexual behaviour, urging affected youth to break the silence and utilize available support channels.
“No young person should suffer abuse in silence,” said Mazibuko. “Report abuse to the police and seek assistance through the Gender-Based Violence desks and other available support services. There are people and services that are there to protect and support you.”
Community-Centred Health Services
The Tsakane Stadium activation offered immediate, practical health services to attendees, including interactive community dialogues, educational sessions, and comprehensive health screenings.
The Gauteng Department of Health reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with schools, families, and local community organizations to stem the rate of teenage pregnancies, reduce new HIV infections, and support the province’s youth in leading healthy, informed lives.
