Lupane Aids Network launched to support youth in HIV/AIDS fight
By Thembelihle Mhlanga
Lupane, Zimbabwe – A new community-based organization called the Lupane Aids Network (LAN) has been launched in Lupane, Zimbabwe with the mission of providing HIV/AIDS education and psychosocial support to local youth aged 10 to 24 years old.
The organization was officially launched last week with remarks from its Executive Director, Mr. Nkululeko Luphahla, and expressions of support from various community stakeholders.
“The objective of LAN is to embrace young people in our community and equip them with the knowledge and resources they need to protect themselves from HIV/AIDS,” said Luphahla. “We want to create a safe space for open dialogue about sexual and reproductive health, and offer counseling and other psychosocial support services.”
Lupane, a rural district in Matabeleland North province, has grappled with high HIV prevalence rates, especially among younger demographics. According to the latest Zimbabwe Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (ZIMPHIA), HIV prevalence for those aged 15-24 in the province is 6.3% – higher than the national average of 5.5%.
Luphahla emphasized that LAN’s target population is a crucial one that is often overlooked when it comes to HIV/AIDS programming.
“Young people aged 10 to 24 are at a critical juncture in their lives, navigating the physical and emotional changes of adolescence. This is when they are most vulnerable to HIV infection, but also when proper guidance and support can have the greatest impact,” he said.
In addition to delivering HIV education sessions in schools and community centers, LAN plans to offer counseling, support groups, and skills-building workshops to help youth develop healthy coping mechanisms, improve self-esteem, and make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.
The launch event was attended by local government officials, traditional leaders, representatives from the National AIDS Council, and members of the Lupane community. Many expressed their support and eagerness to collaborate with LAN.
Chief Mabhikwa, a traditional leader in the area, pledged his backing, saying, “LAN’s work aligns perfectly with our efforts to promote the wellbeing of young people and reduce the burden of HIV in our villages. We will mobilize our community to participate in their activities and support this initiative.”
The representative from the National AIDS Council, Lupane District AIDS Coordinator Phathumusa Yvette Moyo, expressed optimism about LAN’s potential impact.
“Community-based organizations like LAN play a crucial role in reaching marginalized populations and addressing local realities,” said Moyo. “We are excited to partner with them and provide technical guidance to ensure their programs are evidence-based and effective.”
As LAN embarks on its mission, Luphahla emphasized the organization’s commitment to empowering youth as agents of change.
“Our young people have the energy, creativity, and passion to transform their communities. By equipping them with knowledge and skills, we believe LAN can inspire a new generation of HIV/AIDS activists and leaders,” he concluded.
