5 December 2002
The results of the survey by the HSRC and Nelson Mandela Foundation give cause for hope as well as reason to intensify action to combat HIV/AIDS through implementation of our comprehensive programme.
The research adds further depth and detail to the body of knowledge that researchers, scientists and statisticians have been producing to measure the progression and impact of the epidemic, and to inform our programme to combat it. It brings new information about linkages between prevalence, behaviour and communication.
The results are broadly consistent with previous research and point to the same strategic choices and approach that informs the Five Year Strategic Plan and the Cabinet Statements of 17 April and 9 October this year.
Particularly encouraging is the information about the impact of the prevention programme. Indications of high levels of awareness and of a reduction in prevalence amongst young people, highlighted recently by UNAIDS as a message of hope, are now underpinned by new information on changes in behaviour. The prevention messages regarding condom use, abstinence and faithfulness are being taken to heart, especially by the young.
Government is encouraged that the public finds condoms easily accessible; that those who seek counseling and information feel they are able to find it; that treatment for STIs is felt to be readily available and effective.
With regard to treatment, the public support indicated by this research for use of anti-retroviral drugs accords with government's position that such treatment can improve the condition of people living with AIDS if used appropriately and in accordance with international standards. The Government task team set up to understand the full resource implications of an enhanced response to HIV/AIDS will assist us to take decisions on this question.
We have noted the finding that members of the public recognise the Government's commitment to combating HIV/AIDS, but expect that more resources should be allocated for this. We share the view that more resources are needed and we believe this is a major challenge to the nation as a whole.
Government's present intention, announced in the Medium Term Budget Policy Statement, is to increase dedicated funding for HIV and AIDS by R3,3-billion over the next three years and to continue to invest in development initiatives that strengthen our defences against HIV. The research bears eloquent testimony to the link between social vulnerability and HIV - vulnerability based on gender, poor housing conditions and weak community cohesion.
The need for all South Africans to increase their level of involvement is reflected, amongst others, in the findings on where young people obtain information on AIDS. Pleasing though it is to see that schools and clinics are playing a significant role, it is disturbing to know that this is not being sufficiently reinforced by parents.
We urge all South Africans, as the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the HSRC have done through this research, to lend a hand in building the partnership of hope to implement the comprehensive programme.
Issued by: GCIS