Contributory Factors to HIV/AIDS Pandemic among the Youth at Dzumeri Village, Mopani District,Limpopo Province, South Africa

摘要

HIV/AIDS is a worldwide pandemic that has given rise to social challenges such as poverty, and stigmatization. This study explored the contributory factors to the HIV/AIDS pandemic among the youths in Dzumeri village. Limpopo Province, South Africa. Qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design was used. Purposive sampling was used to select thirty participants aged between 14-35 years, who were all Tsonga-speaking. In-depth and focus group interviews were used to collect data using semi-structured questions. Data were analyzed thematically by identifying and expanding significant themes that emerged from the informants' responses. The findings revealed that there is an increase in HIV/AIDS infection amongst young people at Dzumeri village. The following themes emerged: lack of information about HIV/AID, poverty, substance abuse, unsafe sexual practices and cultural beliefs. It has been recommended that, youth need to be well informed about the pandemic, know its contributory factors and the consequences.