On February 13, 2023, delegates from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat conducted a monitoring exercise of HIV and AIDS Youth Helpline Project, which is being implemented in Zomba district by YONECO in partnership with Youth Advocates.
The project provides young people with prompt information on HIV/AIDS, Sexual Reproductive Health (SRHR), as well as access to counselling and referral services through a toll–free helpline number (#393). Furthermore, users have the opportunity to sign up for mHealth services that include personalized HIV/AIDS and SRHR information, as well as reminders for service appointments and specialist counselling services.
The delegation, which was led by Professor Vinesh Robin Sannassee, held a meeting with YONECO management team before proceeding to Chinamwali Ground where YONECO, Youth Advocates, and Zomba District Health Office had organized an SRH outreach activity for the youth. At the event, the delegates interacted with youth ambassadors, health service providers, and some of the young people who have benefited from the project. Funded by SADC