Our goal is to see the eradication of HIV/Aids and create a HIV free generation. We cannot do this if we don’t find effective ways of communicating with young people about sex and relationships.

To help us in this sensitive area our Malawi Director Peatry Ntodwa recently wrote a play titled ‘Zisinthe’ or in English ‘There should be change’. That play has undergone review with our staff and Hope Ambassadors contributing to its evolution . Following drama training and rehearsals our Hope Ambassadors are now taking the performance out into the community.

On Monday 13th May a performance was held at Sulabawo Primary School and the audience were gripped by the performance. Community Drama is a very effective tool for communicating important messages. You can sense the energy, excitement and response in this video extract.

There are many myths and misconceptions about sex and relationships and for young people it is indeed challenging to navigate the transition from childhood to adulthood. When this also occurs with economic and material poverty the challenge is increased. Part of Mbedza’s approach is to carry out research to find out what young people know or don’t know. An example of this occurred in our Sanitary Kit programme.

The Sanitary Kit programme provides girls with a washable sanitary kit as well as some health and sex and relationship education. We asked girls what were the questions on their minds and these are some of things they asked. They illustrate why we should call a spade a spade and not a big spoon and why it is indeed time for change:

1. Are you allowed to engage in any sexual activities with your partner when you both test negative for HIV during HIV testing?

2. Is it true that when a girl eats beans during her period, she bleeds a lot more during her menstrual days?

3. Is it safe to sleep with your partner soon after your menstrual period?                                     

4. Is it accurate that having sex with your partner can shorten the duration of your menstruation, such that instead of lasting for five days, it may be reduced to three or two days?

5. Is It true that when you are that type of girl who feels some body/waist/pelvic pains while menstruating you reduce the pain when you sleep with your partner very often?

6. Is it true that if you sleep with your uncle and your stepfather you will not be infected with HIV?

7. If a boy becomes aroused and ready for sex, but the girl suddenly refuses, does it lead to death for the boy?

In June we are launching our Mbedza Youth Leadership Award Scheme and our Hope Ambassadors will be our first group of students to take part. The sheme focuses on serving in the community and this is exemplified by our Hope Ambassadors outreach programme.