A Multi-Foci Intervention for Empowering Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Low-Socio-Economic Areas: A South African Perspective

Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in South Africa remain disproportionately affected by HIV due to a complex interplay of structural, social, and gender-based vulnerabilities. This study explored the experiences of AGYW who participated in a group-based HIV prevention intervention in three low-socio-economic communities—Soweto, Alexandra, and Orange Farm—in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The intervention integrated economic strengthening with HIV prevention education, delivered through structured, mentor-led group sessions. Using qualitative methods, in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 AGYW aged 15–24 to examine how participation empowered them to reduce HIV-related risks. The findings reveal that the intervention significantly enhanced participants’ self-awareness, assertiveness, and knowledge of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH), while fostering personal independence, goal setting, and agency. The group-based format also facilitated peer connection and created a safe space for challenging harmful gender norms, improving health-seeking behaviours, and navigating access to SRH services. Mentorship emerged as a critical enabler of impact, providing emotional support and trusted guidance. The study underscores the value of community group-based HIV prevention models that empower AGYW through social, economic, and gender-responsive approaches, offering practical insights for policy and programme design in resource-constrained settings.