Neftaly: Strengthening HIV Prevention Among Most-At-Risk Populations (MARPs)
At Neftaly (South African Youth Project), we are committed to addressing the HIV epidemic where it hits hardest — among Most-At-Risk Populations (MARPs). These include sex workers, men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID), transgender individuals, mobile populations, and young women and adolescent girls — groups disproportionately affected by HIV due to social, economic, and structural vulnerabilities.
Our work focuses on targeted, rights-based, and evidence-informed interventions that ensure these populations have access to comprehensive HIV prevention, testing, care, and support services — free from stigma, discrimination, or exclusion.
Key Objectives
- Reduce new HIV infections among MARPs through tailored prevention strategies.
- Improve access to HIV testing, PrEP, condoms, and linkage to care for at-risk populations.
- Address stigma and discrimination that prevent MARPs from accessing health services.
- Empower communities to lead prevention efforts and advocate for their rights.
Program Components
1. Targeted HIV Prevention Education
- Community-based outreach and peer-led education tailored to each group’s specific needs.
- Culturally and linguistically appropriate IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) materials.
- Digital campaigns to reach hidden and mobile populations via social media, SMS, and WhatsApp.
2. HIV Testing and Linkage to Care
- Community and mobile HIV Testing Services (HTS) offered in safe, trusted spaces.
- Same-day ART initiation referrals for those testing positive.
- Promotion of and access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and PEP for HIV-negative individuals at high risk.
3. Condom and Lubricant Distribution
- Free, consistent supply of male and female condoms and lubricants distributed through drop-in centers, outreach workers, and clinics.
4. Peer Outreach and Support
- Recruitment and training of peer educators from MARP communities.
- Support groups and psychosocial services tailored to the lived experiences of key populations.
- Linkage to legal and social support for individuals facing gender-based violence or criminalization.
5. Stigma Reduction and Rights-Based Advocacy
- Sensitization training for healthcare workers, law enforcement, and community leaders.
- Advocacy for policy changes that remove barriers to access for key populations.
- Creation of safe spaces where MARPs can access services without fear of discrimination.
Our Impact So Far
- Reached over 15,000 individuals from key populations with HIV prevention education and services.
- Distributed more than 100,000 condoms and lubricants through peer-led channels.
- Linked 95% of those testing HIV-positive to treatment and support within 7 days.
- Trained 120 peer educators and outreach workers to engage MARPs across urban and peri-urban areas.
Why This Work Matters
Most-At-Risk Populations face higher HIV infection rates, but also greater barriers to services due to stigma, criminalization, poverty, and lack of tailored support. Neftaly’s community-centered model ensures these individuals are not just reached — but respected, protected, and empowered.