Population Council Research that makes a difference

South Africa is faced with an advanced HIV epidemic that disproportionately affects women. In addition, the country confronts high levels of sexual and gender-based violence, unemployment, unwanted pregnancy, and other health and rights challenges. Migrants in South Africa are particularly vulnerable to these challenges given xenophobia and difficulties in accessing resources, which places them at risk for abuse. Recognition of the need to assist the government in meeting the demand for services has led to an increase in the number of grassroots organizations working with migrants. Some are registered with the Department of Social Welfare, and others are offering ad hoc services through churches. Most of these organizations are reaching a large number of people but lack the capacity to provide high-quality services to migrants in a comprehensive and sustainable manner. They require support to enhance their capacity to implement, monitor, and ensure delivery of high-quality and sustainable services.

The Population Council acknowledges the important role that these organizations play in improving health and sexual and reproductive health and rights service delivery for migrants. The Council is working with four organizations in the inner city of Johannesburg to build their capacity by providing small grants and technical assistance and strengthen their existing programs in an effort to build effective, structured, and sustainable programs for improved service delivery. This effort will be coupled with a series of advocacy activities aimed at increasing tolerance, respect, cooperation, and understanding among community members regardless of nationality or migrant status. 

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Related project: Needs Assessment for Marginalized, Socially Excluded Populations in Johannesburg, South Africa

Banner photo: © Benjamin Porter