KwaZulu-Natal’s disparate HIV prevalence and pervasive HIV risk behaviour

Abstract

As a province, KwaZulu-Natal recently led South Africa in antiretroviral treatment coverage and HIV viral load suppression. However, the province continues to grapple with disparities among vulnerable groups. Youth and young women are disproportionately affected, driven by socio-economic vulnerabilities and pervasive risky sexual behaviours among men. Stakeholders at the release of the province’s latest HIV household survey called for comprehensive interventions to empower women and engage traditional leaders in promoting safe sexual practices, with a view to curbing the ongoing spread of HIV in the province.