Dialogue on health empowers local women

WOMEN in Bosmont, west of Johannesburg, have been assured that their local clinic will never mistreat them.

More than 70 women had turned out for a City of Joburg dialogue on sexually transmitted infections.

Held at the Bosmont Recreation Centre, the dialogue was aimed at empowering women to make informed decisions about their sexual health.

The discussion coincided with the National STI/Condom week. It was themed “Women’s dialogue on Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus HIV/AIDS 2018”.

Sister Matilda Nevhuhulwi, manager of the Bosmont clinic, urged the women to have faith in their community institution.

“The clinic is here for you. Come and use our service because it is meant for you,” she said.

“I can promise you that we will treat you with care, provide quality service in a compassionate way so that you are equipped to make informed decisions about your health.”

The dialogue touched on issues including sexually transmitted diseases, reproductive health and tuberculosis (TB). There were also demonstrations about using female and male condoms.

Sheila Madosi, one of the women, said she gathered useful information at the dialogue.

“(It) has helped me to know how to take care of myself. I now know when and where to go for a pap smear and why it’s important for me to do it,” said Madosi.

“I can also confidently share that information with other women when I’m working in the commun- ity,” she added.

Madosi works for Jozi Ihlomile, a community-based outreach project launched more than 10 years ago to educate residents about HIV and Aids.

She said the knowledge garnered at the discussion would also assist her in her duties.

“When we go out as Jozi Ihlomile workers, we see and interact with residents who are in difficult situations.

“I have realised that some of the situations can be dealt with by simply going to the clinic and seeking help,” she said.