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The Board of Directors of the Anova Health Institute NPC is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Moyahabo Mabitsi as Joint Chief Executive Officer of Anova with effect from April 2024. Dr Mabitsi, who will join Dr Helen Struthers as Joint CEO, has many years’ experience in leading large grant-funded public health programmes in South Africa. She has been a member of Anova’s Board since 2018. Dr Struthers will be stepping down from the Anova CEO position at the end of 2024, on reaching retirement age. She remains committed to the success of the organisation. The Board also welcomes the appointment of Dr Diana Mokoena as Chief of Party of the PEPFAR/USAID funded APACE grant. This is one of the largest and most complex PEPFAR programmes in the world. Dr Mokoena will lead a dedicated team of experienced programme and technical specialists. Both Dr Mabitsi and Dr Struthers will continue to provide technical and management expertise to all Anova’s activities, including the APACE programme. Since 2009, as one of the founders and Chief Operations Officer of Anova, Dr Struthers led the PEPFAR/USAID and other grant funded public health implementation programmes as Chief of Party. During this time Anova grew to be one of the largest and most successful Health NGOs in Africa. After Dr Struthers stepped into the CEO position, Dr Mabitsi took on the role as Chief of Party and Chief Medical Director. This announcement is the culmination of a multiyear succession plan which builds on Anova’s strengths and advances our transformation strategy. We have every confidence in Dr Mabitsi’s ability to lead the organisation and ensure the seamless transition of the CEO role. Dr Mabitsi and Dr Mokoena are shining examples of Anova’s commitment to develop and nurture our internal talent. They have demonstrated their commitment and ability in leading a range of Anova’s health programmes. Ms Faith Mayimela-Hashatse Board Chair Ends   For more information, please contact: Sibonisiwe Dube Head of Marketing, Anova Health Institute Tel +27 11 581 5007 info@anovahealth.co.za www.anovahealth.co.za

Fear and anxiety have gripped the globe in the past 19 months as COVID-19 took a toll on life, economies and society at large. The pandemic affected our lives in ways we could’ve never imagined, not only did it impact our finances, but it has taken a toll on some people’s mental health too. The World Health Organisation defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.” Everyone must try to cope with stress at some point in time.  A certain amount of stress isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but too much stress can overwhelm a person’s ability to cope. In the long term it becomes harmful to our physical and mental health, sometimes reaching a point where our mood, thinking and behaviour is affected. Depression and anxiety are common mental disorder that can be triggered, among other things, by chronic stress that endures over a long period. Severe stress, caused by negative life events, such as a divorce or financial loss, or loss of loved ones during the pandemic, puts the psyche out of balance, therefore it’s vital that stress is managed properly. Already, one in three South Africans suffers from depression and rates are climbing. As we commemorate World Mental Health Month, we are urging you to put yourself first and practise self-care. If you are worried or wondering about your mental health or think you are at risk of developing a mental health disorder, here are some common warning signs you should look out for: Early Warning Signs Dr Tamsyn Nash, a Counselling Psychologist at Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre says that experiencing one or more of the following feelings or behaviours can indicate a problem: Eating or sleeping too much or too little Pulling away from people Having low or no energy Feeling numb or like nothing matters Having unexplained aches and pains Feeling helpless or hopeless Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried, or scared Yelling or fighting with family and friends Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships Thinking of harming yourself or others If you’re feeling one or more of the symptoms mentioned above, you may need to seek professional help. But what if you can’t afford it? Here few techniques you could try: If you feel yourself sinking, give yourself time to just be.  Give yourself one day to just feel whatever you are feeling. It’s okay, we’re all human. Negative emotions are valid. Relaxation exercises such as breathing and meditation can be helpful for coping with anxiety. Exercising can help lighten up your mood, try jogging or walking around the block. Talk to someone you can trust. Talking about your feelings within a safe space with someone who’s non-judgemental allows you to express what you feel instead of ignoring or suppressing it. Say NO more often. Learning the art of saying “no”  identifying and expressing your needs is helpful, especially when your anxiety stems from taking on more than you can handle. Mental health is as important as physical health. Mental illness should be taken seriously and not to be ignored. Take care, watch for the signs. Your wellbeing is important! Here are a few helpful numbers you can contact should you need to: Suicide Crisis Line:0800-567-567 Lifeline:086-132-2322 Domestic violence helpline:0800-150-150 Childline:0800-055-555 Mental Healthcare for All: Let’s make it a reality

23 February 2024 [Johannesburg, South Africa]   The Anova Health Institute is proud to announce the receipt of a substantial grant from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), following a rigorous and competitive application process, a testament to our commitment to healthcare excellence and innovation. With support from the U.S. Government through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), and programmatically through USAID, the Anova Health Institute will partner with the Limpopo Department of Health to implement the new award, “Achieving and Sustaining HIV/TB epidemic control in Limpopo Province”. The aim of this new five-year award is to support efforts towards HIV/TB epidemic control in Capricorn and Mopani districts. The Limpopo provincial government has termed this award ‘Hanyani Bophelo programme’ which means “live life”. This ambitious programme will be led by Dr. Lucy Ranoto, a medical professional with over ten years’ experience in the HIV/TB response in Limpopo. The programme builds upon Anova’s two-decade history of successful, impactful partnerships with the Limpopo Department of Health. Dr. Moyahabo Mabitsi, Anova’s Chief Medical Director, expressed optimism and commitment: “Our enduring collaboration with USAID and the Department of Health reflects Anova’s dedication to improving health outcomes. The Hanyani-Bophelo programme is poised to make a significant impact in the communities we serve. Throughout our journey, Anova’s mission has been to enhance people’s lives and expand access to quality healthcare by developing innovative solutions, building on scientific evidence and fostering productive partnerships. This generous grant will enable us to take a significant step forward in realising Anova’s vision of excellent health for all.” USAID Southern Africa Regional Mission Director, Leslie Marbury said, “The U.S. government’s support in South Africa reflects an enduring commitment to improve the well-being, prosperity, and quality of life of individuals and communities. With a focus on ending TB and HIV, our PEPFAR program catalyses transformative change, aligning with the South African government’s vision. Together, we forge pathways to healthier communities and brighter futures, grounded in partnership, innovation, and compassion.” In response to this grant, Dr Mutheiwana Dombo, Deputy Director General (DDG) of the Department of Health in the Limpopo Province has shown her gratitude, “This PEPFAR grant to our partner Anova Health Institute is a welcome development. Through close collaboration with Anova we have made positive strides towards the fight against HIV/AIDS, and we believe that this grant will enable both parties to continue on this journey.”   About the Anova Health Institute: The Anova Health Institute is a renowned healthcare NGO, at the forefront of the global battle against HIV. Recognised for its innovative and impactful approaches, Anova is making strides in increasing access to quality HIV care and treatment within the public sector. Our work in this field is not just about providing services; it’s about pioneering new ways to tackle the HIV epidemic. Our expertise extends across various critical areas: from clinical management of HIV to focusing on key populations and conducting comprehensive research on both clinical and social aspects of HIV. This multi-faceted approach enables Anova to not just respond to the HIV crisis but to actively shape the strategies and solutions that lead the way in this field. With a deep commitment to innovation and excellence, Anova is leading the charge in transforming HIV care and treatment. As one of the largest global partners of the PEPFAR programme, Anova plays a critical role, currently supporting nearly a million individuals on antiretroviral treatment through the Department of Health services in South Africa.   Media Contact: Sibonisiwe Dube Head of Marketing, Anova Health Institute 060 560 2673 info@anovahealth.co.za For more information, visit us on: www.anovahealth.co.za Facebook: Anova Health Institute Twitter: @AnovaHealthSA LinkedIn: Anova Health Institute

In a significant stride towards achieving UNAIDS targets, Anova Health Institute has launched the ARVs4Me campaign, reinforcing its commitment to the global effort of ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic. UNAIDS set ambitious goals, urging for 95% of people living with HIV to know their status, 95% of those diagnosed to be on antiretroviral treatment, and 95% of those on treatment to achieve viral suppression by 2025. The ARVs4Me campaign, initiated at the beginning of November, serves as a catalyst to encourage communities to actively participate in reaching these targets. Operating in areas mostly affected by HIV, the aim of the campaign is to communicate the benefits that come with having a virus that is controlled and suppressed due to antiretroviral treatment, which include, living an active life where one is able to work, study, take care of loved ones and “ do life’ without worrying about being sick or visiting the clinic multiple times to collect HIV medication. The emphasis is also on the ease and convenience of taking the current treatment regimens which mostly comprise of 1 pill a day with minimal to no side effects. Anova Health Institute recognises the vital role of community engagement in achieving these targets. The campaign involves direct interactions with individuals affected by HIV, providing a platform for them to share their lived experiences. By amplifying these voices, Anova aims to promote testing for HIV, motivate adherence to medication and encourage restarting treatment for those who have stopped taking it. The launch of the ARVs4Me campaign holds particular significance as it coincides with the global commemoration of World Aids Day, celebrated under the theme \”Let communities lead.\” This annual observance not only highlights the genuine experiences of those currently living with HIV but also honours the unwavering strength, resilience, and diversity within the communities most affected. Dudu Mdletshe: A Living Testimony At the heart of the ARVs4Me launch lies the powerful narratives of individuals like Dudu Mdletshe, a Diesploot community member. Dudu\’s challenging, yet rewarding journey now drives her mission to educate her community about HIV testing, awareness, and taking proactive steps towards a healthier future. Diagnosed in 2000, Dudu initially grappled with denial, not expecting her HIV test results to say she was infected with HIV. Determined to confront her reality, Dudu took the HIV test again after a couple of years at a different clinic, receiving the confirmation she needed to begin her journey with HIV. She commenced her treatment in 2008, and has since thrived, embodying the message that HIV is no longer a death sentence. Her story underscores the importance of early testing, acceptance, and the life-changing impact of antiretroviral treatment. Today, Dudu advocates for regular HIV testing, emphasising that an HIV diagnosis should not define one\’s future. “Not only have I accepted my HIV status, but I have over the years told myself not to allow my status to take over my life. I take my HIV treatment as prescribed and make every effort to lead a healthy, fulfilling life. To me, HIV is just another sickness that can be managed with the right treatment”. “In fact,” she chuckles, “I had a conversation with the virus and told it that its place is right at the tip of my toe – it doesn’t and will not rule my world.” Dudu passionately encourages everyone to get tested, emphasising that living with HIV is now manageable, allowing individuals to lead wholesome lives without the burden of excessive medication. Her advocacy aligns with the broader goal of the ARVs4Me campaign: to reshape perceptions around HIV, eradicate stigma, and promote proactive healthcare choices. In Dudu\’s words, \”Today’s HIV-positive patients can expect to live long and happy lives without taking too many pills. HIV should no longer be viewed as a death sentence but as a manageable health condition.\” A Call to Action The initial launch of the ARVs4Me campaign has been met with resounding success, with active participation from communities eager to take charge of their health. Anova will continue to visit areas most in need of these services, ensuring that the campaign\’s impact is felt across diverse populations. Through initiatives like ARVs4Me, Anova Health Institute remains at the forefront of the fight against HIV/AIDS, championing UNAIDS targets and empowering communities to lead the way towards a healthier future. To learn more about HIV care and treatment visit ARVs4Me.co.za.

At Anova Health Institute, we have always been dedicated to fostering an environment of dignity, respect, and inclusion. As an organisation deeply committed to making a positive impact on public health, we recognize the importance of a workplace and program spaces free from all forms of harassment. Harassment, in all its unwelcome and intrusive forms, has no place at Anova. It is a violation of our core values, and we are resolute in our pursuit of its prevention and elimination. What is harassment? As detailed in our Prevention and Elimination of Harassment Policy, harassment is defined as any unwelcome behaviour that undermines one’s dignity. This conduct is strictly prohibited and unacceptable across at any location or online forum where Anova employees operate and conduct programs. Forms of harassment Harassment can manifest in various ways, including: Verbal: Offensive comments, slurs, or insults directed at a person based on their race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or other traits. Sexual harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, comments, or behaviours that create a hostile or uncomfortable environment, including sexual comments, requests for sexual favours, or any unwelcome sexual conduct. Cyberbullying: Harassment conducted through digital means, such as online harassment, cyberbullying, or trolling, which may involve threats, spreading false information, or using harmful language online. Stalking: Repeated, intrusive, and unwanted attention and monitoring of an individual, both online and offline, leading to feelings of fear and insecurity. Bullying: Aggressive and repeated behaviour intended to harm, intimidate, or dominate another person, often in school or workplace settings. The negative consequences of harassment The detrimental effects of workplace harassment are wide-ranging, impacting not only the individual experiencing harassment but also the organisation. As an organisation dedicated to diversity and serving key populations, ensuring a safe, harassment-free environment for our staff and the communities we support is a priority. Here are some of the negative consequences of harassment: 1. Physical and Mental Health Effects: Stress and Anxiety: Harassment can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and panic attacks. Depression: Those who experience harassment may experience depression, leading to a diminished quality of life. Physical Health: It can result in physical health issues like headaches, digestive problems, and sleep disturbances. 2. Emotional Distress: Low Self-Esteem: Harassment can erode an individual’s self-esteem and self-worth. Isolation: One may withdraw from social interactions due to fear, shame, or emotional distress. 3. Impaired Job Performance: Reduced Productivity: Harassment can affect concentration, focus, and the ability to perform daily tasks. Absenteeism: Those who experience harassment may take time off work due to stress or health issues. Loss of Job Satisfaction: Job satisfaction often decreases when individuals face harassment. 4. Negative Impact on Career: Stalled Career Progression: Harassment may hinder career advancement due to lost opportunities and a damaged professional reputation. Resignation or Termination: Survivors may leave their jobs voluntarily or the harasser’s job may be terminated because of harassment. 5. Impact on Relationships: Strained Personal Relationships: Harassment can affect personal relationships due to the emotional toll it takes on the survivor. 6. Reduced Workplace Morale: Decreased Employee Morale: A workplace where harassment is tolerated can result in low morale among all employees, not just those who experience harassment directly. 7. Negative Organisational Consequences: Reputation Damage: Incidents of harassment can tarnish the organisation’s reputation, leading to a loss of trust among customers, clients, and the public. Reduced Productivity: A hostile work environment can hinder overall productivity, teamwork, and innovation within the organisation. 8. Loss of Diversity and Inclusion: Workplace harassment can deter individuals from underrepresented groups from joining or staying with an organisation, hindering diversity and inclusion efforts. Links between harassment and gender-based violence Gender-based violence (GBV) is alarmingly prevalent in South Africa, reflecting one of the world’s highest rates. The connections between harassment and GBV are profound and multifaceted. Recognising and understanding these links is pivotal to effectively combat these harmful behaviours. Here’s an exploration of how they intertwine: Power Imbalance: Both harassment and GBV stem from power imbalances. Perpetrators aim to control and dominate victims, often based on gender, age, race, or social status. Gendered Nature: Harassment and GBV often target individuals due to their gender or identity. For instance, sexual harassment primarily impacts individuals based on gender, with women being disproportionately affected. Normalisation: Social norms sometimes trivialise or normalise certain mistreatments, making it harder to address these behaviours. Similar Forms: Certain types of harassment, like sexual harassment, can escalate into more severe forms of GBV, such as sexual assault or intimate partner violence. Psychological Impact: Both harassment and GBV can deeply affect survivors psychologically and emotionally, leading to enduring emotional trauma. Fear and Intimidation: Harassment can be a prelude or a method of intimidation, often used in GBV cases to control the victim, causing fear of further violence or harassment, and discouraging reporting or seeking help. Overlapping Perpetrators: Some individuals engaging in harassment might also be involved in other forms of GBV. Workplace Harassment: Workplace harassment, including sexual harassment, can create hostile work environments, reduce productivity, and result in unequal power distributions, potentially contributing to GBV in the workplace. Cyber Harassment: Online harassment, a prevalent form, can escalate to online GBV, targeting individuals based on gender with explicit threats or harassment. Intersectionality: Harassment and GBV can intersect with other forms of discrimination and violence, creating compound harm for those experiencing multiple types of mistreatment. Trauma: Both harassment and GBV can cause enduring physical and psychological trauma, impacting survivors’ mental and physical health significantly. Understanding these links is crucial for developing comprehensive strategies to prevent and address these issues. Collaborative efforts among organisations, governments, and communities are necessary to create safe, inclusive environments and support survivors of harassment and GBV effectively. Education, awareness, and legal protections are vital components in effectively addressing these pressing issues. Confronting workplace harassment isn’t just a legal necessity but a critical ethical and strategic priority for organisations. It’s vital for nurturing a safe, respectful, and productive work atmosphere, safeguarding the well-being and rights of employees, and upholding an organisation’s reputation and core values. Anova Health Institute remains Uncompromising to all

Living with HIV can be a complex and emotional journey, marked by both triumphs and challenges. While medical advancements have made HIV treatment highly effective in managing the virus, it\’s essential to recognize and address the emotional impact that comes with it. Understanding the Emotional Impact Receiving an HIV diagnosis can trigger a range of emotions, from shock and fear to anxiety and uncertainty. The knowledge of living with a chronic condition can be overwhelming. One of the most significant emotional challenges associated with HIV is stigma. This stigma can come from different levels, including health and educational institutions, communities and between individuals. Encountering such discrimination, judgment, and social isolation can take a toll on the mental well-being of people living with HIV (PLHIV). Additionally, individuals may internalize these negative beliefs, leading to self-stigma. Another hurdle of HIV treatment is its constant management, along with concerns about side effects. When HIV is effectively managed, it can mean a prolonged and healthy life for PLHIV. Therefore, life-long treatment with the emotional impact of daily life cannot be overlooked. This constant thought can result in anxiety and depression. In addition, fear of disclosure, worries about medication adherence, and coping with an uncertain future can all lead to emotional distress. Some individuals may withdraw from social activities and relationships due to fear of rejection or transmission concerns. This isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression. The Importance of HIV Treatment While it\’s essential to acknowledge the emotional impact of HIV, it\’s equally crucial to stress the importance of HIV treatment. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has revolutionized HIV care by effectively suppressing the virus, improving immune function, and prolonging life expectancy. Staying on Treatment One of the most empowering steps PLHIV can take in managing the emotional impact of HIV is to stay on treatment consistently. By doing so, they are protecting their health but reducing the risk of transmitting the virus to others. It’s good to talk If as a PLHIV you find that the emotional challenges of HIV treatment are affecting your mental well-being, seek support. Reach out to a healthcare professional near you. They can provide counselling, mental health support, and guidance on coping strategies. Living with HIV can be emotionally challenging but remember that you are not alone. There is a vast network of healthcare professionals, support groups, and organizations dedicated to helping individuals navigate the emotional aspects of HIV. Seek the support you need, stay on treatment, and remember that your emotional well-being is an essential part of your overall health journey. You deserve to live a fulfilling and emotionally healthy life while managing HIV.

CAPE TOWN – The Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Nomafrench Mbombo, along with senior officials from the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, academics, researchers, community leaders and leadership from the Northern Tygerberg Department of Health Sub-Structure (NTSS), inaugurated the Fisantekraal Community Day Centre. The highlight of this event was the launch of the Fisantekraal Men\’s Clinic in response to the community\’s request for  dedicated men\’s health services. Mr. Alfonso Patientia, the Primary Healthcare Manager, expressed delight during the opening, stating, “Today marks the official launch of the facility and the men’s health clinic. As a department, we acknowledge our previous focus on women and children, recognizing the need for increased support for men. The men\’s clinic idea stemmed from the facility manager\’s observation that only women and girls were accessing the clinic making it difficult to address the problem of HIV and teenage pregnancy among girls in the community. “When the idea came, I first approached  UWC for space but when I heard that Anova has a men’s programme, I decided to open a men’s clinic and approached the Sub-structure  which has been supportive to this day”.- Mr Makamba,  facility manager-Fisantekraal Community Day Centre (CDC). Anova partners with the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness in implementing the HIV epidemic response under the Accelerated Programme Achievement for Controlling the Epidemic (APACE) program. The Anova Health4Men programme was established to address  biomedical and psychosocial needs of men. The programme is collaborating with the Western Cape department of health to expand male-friendly clinics in the Cape Metro. Dr. Qondisa Qina, Programme Manager for Anova APACE Western Cape, emphasized, “Our goal remains focused on achieving the 95-95-95 targets, ensuring men are tested, treated, and achieve viral suppression. Overcoming socio-structural barriers preventing men from clinic visits is crucial to closing the gap in HIV care and achieving the goal of ending the epidemic by 2030.”.  Anova’s Head of Department for Western Cape Dr Nelis  Grobbelaar expressed  Anova’s renewed continuous  commitment to work with Department of health and urged delegates to make sure all categories of men are covered including Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) and other marginalised groups of men. The Minister of Health and Wellness encouraged men to utilize the clinic\’s services and take charge of their health. She emphasized the need for healthcare staff to prioritize men and urged nurses to prioritize mental health services, as this is a challenge among men. Various community stakeholders also voiced their support, with Professor Firdouza Waggie from UWC pledging to prioritize men\’s health as a top research agenda for the UWC Faculty of Community Health Sciences. The decision to establish a men’s clinic is hailed as a significant step towards achieving universal health coverage among men. The Fisantekraal Men’s clinic will offer comprehensive Primary Health Care services, including HIV testing. The Fisantekraal Men’s clinic is the first Anova Health4Men supported men’s clinic in the Western Cape, joining other men’s clinics in the province, such as Kuyasa and Siseko. Health4Men is a program of Anova funded by USAID/PEPFAR through the APACE grant. Views expressed in this article represent those of Anova and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID, PEPFAR, the US government, or the Western Cape government. For more information about Anova Men\’s Health Program, contact Mr. Beloved Manasidze, Technical Specialist for Men\’s Health, at 011-581-5000 or email at manasidzeb@anovahealth.co.za  or Lebogang Makokoana at makokoanale@anovahealth.co.za