The Kuyasa branch of TAC held a meeting in Xila’s Place at the weekend. Photo by Munda Kula.
5 August 2014
People should view taverns as part of the community, where young people can meet to enjoy themselves, and not as enemies, community activists told a meeting at the weekend of the Kuyasa branch of the Treatment Action Campaign.
The meeting was held in Xila’s Place, known as “kwa X”.
Other community organisations involved included Sonke Gender Justice, Inkululeko in Mind, and Khalture Crew, young entrepreneurs who specialise in clothing and promoting talent in Khayelitsha.
The meeting was aimed at creating awareness about preventing HIV infection and encouraging youth to fight the stigma of HIV.
Activists also spoke about using taverns in a way that could benefit the community.
“Previously, we used to know X as a violent place in our community, where people get stabbed and fight”, said a 16-year-old girl in the audience.
Tavern owners called for respect for their properties. “If you can treat people with dignity in your home, why lose respect in my place?” asked one tavern owner.
He called on community organisations to do something about crime and insufficient security in Kuyasa because this threatened his business.
The event ended with 70 young people being tested for HIV and AIDS.