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Submission information
Submission Number: 273
Submission ID: 1543
Submission UUID: 5cffdf27-580a-435d-b89e-13957ce3b3a0
Submission URI: /2025/abstracts
Created: Mon, 07/28/2025 - 08:42
Completed: Mon, 07/28/2025 - 09:10
Changed: Wed, 08/13/2025 - 13:00
Remote IP address: 105.12.1.168
Submitted by: Anonymous
Language: English
Is draft: No
Current page: Complete
Webform: Abstract
Presenters
Ms.
Buthelezi
Velile nontethelelo
University of south africa
Velile Nontethelelo Buthelezi is the Senior Social Worker by profession working for the public sector,employed by the Department of Social Develooment,stationed at uBombo Service Office under uMkhanyakude District Municipality.Iam a Generic Social Worker,under Social Services section with 15 years of experience in the field.She was appointed to act on a Supervisory post durring 2022 to 2023 for a period of 12 months.In 2022,obtain her Honours Degree in Social and Behavioural Studies(HIV-AIDS),currently persuing her Masters in Social Studies (HIV-AIDS).The project Tittle:Exploring the Relationship Between Gender-Based Violence and Human Immunodeficiency Virus:Focus on the lived experiences of Positive Black Women in Ubombo rural area,KwaZulu-Natal
No
Abstract
Exploring the relationship between Gender Based Violence and Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Focus on the lived experiences of Positive Black Women in Ubombob Rural area,KwaZulu-Natal
THEME 1: Green Social Work and Climate Resilience: Supporting Vulnerable Communities in the Face of Environmental Crises
SUB 1.3 How social workers support resilience, adaptation, and recovery in affected communities.
Poster Presentation
This study investigates the intersectionality of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) among HIV-positive black women in the rural Ubombo area of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Despite extensive research on HIV and GBV in urban regions, rural areas like Ubombo remain underexplored, particularly in relation to how these two phenomena intertwine. The high prevalence of both HIV and GBV in Ubombo demands a focused inquiry into the lived experiences of black women who face these dual challenges. The study articulates its primary objective as exploring how socio-cultural norms, economic disparities, and healthcare barriers exacerbate the vulnerability of HIV-positive women to GBV, thereby complicating their access to treatment and support services.
The research employs a qualitative methodology, guided by the Social Ecological Model (SEM), to examine the complex interactions between individual, interpersonal, community, and societal factors that influence the experiences of black women in Ubombo. Data collection is carried out through semi-structured interviews with 15 women, selected through purposive sampling, who have experienced both GBV and HIV. Thematic analysis is applied to identify key patterns and themes from the narratives, providing a nuanced understanding of the socio-cultural, economic, and health-related challenges faced by these women.
Preliminary findings suggest that deeply ingrained patriarchal norms and economic dependence limit women's autonomy in sexual relationships, increasing their risk of both HIV and GBV. Stigma and fear of reprisal further inhibit their ability to seek medical care and support services. Additionally, the study finds that existing intervention programs in the area are often inadequate, lacking in cultural sensitivity and failing to address the compounded issues of GBV and HIV in an integrated manner.
The broader impact of this research lies in its contribution to policy development, advocating for the implementation of culturally informed, integrated intervention programs that address both HIV and GBV simultaneously. This study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions that empower women in rural areas, address healthcare gaps, and challenge harmful socio-cultural norms that perpetuate violence and HIV transmission.
The research employs a qualitative methodology, guided by the Social Ecological Model (SEM), to examine the complex interactions between individual, interpersonal, community, and societal factors that influence the experiences of black women in Ubombo. Data collection is carried out through semi-structured interviews with 15 women, selected through purposive sampling, who have experienced both GBV and HIV. Thematic analysis is applied to identify key patterns and themes from the narratives, providing a nuanced understanding of the socio-cultural, economic, and health-related challenges faced by these women.
Preliminary findings suggest that deeply ingrained patriarchal norms and economic dependence limit women's autonomy in sexual relationships, increasing their risk of both HIV and GBV. Stigma and fear of reprisal further inhibit their ability to seek medical care and support services. Additionally, the study finds that existing intervention programs in the area are often inadequate, lacking in cultural sensitivity and failing to address the compounded issues of GBV and HIV in an integrated manner.
The broader impact of this research lies in its contribution to policy development, advocating for the implementation of culturally informed, integrated intervention programs that address both HIV and GBV simultaneously. This study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions that empower women in rural areas, address healthcare gaps, and challenge harmful socio-cultural norms that perpetuate violence and HIV transmission.
Reviewer ONE Feedback
Dr
Martha
van Straaten
Yes
Empirical Research
Accepted
Reviewer TWO Feedback
Dr
Luce
Pretorius
Yes
Empirical Research
Accepted