Eswatini, August 26, 2023, The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), operating through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), unveiled a new accolade on Friday. The award, christened ‘Sabelo Sensha’, has been conferred upon the organization Young Heroes. This groundbreaking initiative aims to extend services across numerous communities in Eswatini while fostering collaboration with key line ministries such as the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Education, both integral to bolstering systems addressing HIV and children’s vulnerability to violence.
Chargé d’Affaires Earl Miller, delivering his address, articulated the significance of this fresh collaborative endeavor. “This innovative cooperative agreement marks a pivotal juncture for USAID, signifying the complete transition of its OVC and DREAMS portfolio to local partners,” Miller stated. The U.S. Government’s dedication to supporting Eswatini in sustaining its strides against the HIV epidemic was underlined, as well as the commitment to extending aid to those still exposed to its risk. He noted the disproportionate burden borne by young girls and women, who continue to face elevated rates of new HIV infections.
Miller expounded further, spotlighting pressing challenges that persist. “Teenage pregnancies remain alarmingly prevalent, and economic pressures often drive young women into precarious relationships,” he emphasized. An urgent need was highlighted for educational institutions to address sexual health and gender-based violence comprehensively. Miller emphasized the necessity of accessible and youth-friendly health services, advocating for the availability of a spectrum of family planning options alongside Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP).
