Background

KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), located in southeastern South Africa, faces significant socio-economic challenges that underscore the necessity for organizations like GEZUBUSO Projects. Despite being the second-largest contributor to South Africa's GDP, accounting for approximately 16%, the province grapples with high poverty rates, unemployment, and health crises.

HIV/AIDS Epidemic

KZN has been severely impacted by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. In 2022, the province reported an HIV prevalence rate of 16.0%, a decrease from 18.0% in 2017. This translates to approximately 1,980,000 people living with HIV (PLHIV) in KZN, down from 1,990,000 in 2017. Notably, HIV prevalence was higher among individuals aged 25–49 years, with a rate of 31.1%. Among females in this age group, the prevalence was 38.4%, while among males, it was 21.5%. Additionally, HIV prevalence was higher among those residing in rural formal or farm areas, at 20.0%.

Youth Unemployment

Youth unemployment remains a pressing issue in KZN. In the third quarter of 2023, the province recorded an official unemployment rate of 30.6%. Notably, the youth population is disproportionately affected, with unemployment rates among young people reaching nearly 60%.

Teenage Pregnancies

Teenage pregnancy rates in KZN are alarmingly high. Between April and December 2022, 26,515 girls aged between 10 and 19 years fell pregnant, with 1,254 of them aged 14 and younger. This situation highlights the urgent need for comprehensive sexual education and support services for young girls in the province.

Drug Abuse

While specific recent statistics on drug abuse in KZN are limited, substance abuse remains a significant concern, particularly among the youth. The South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (SACENDU) has reported increases in treatment admissions for substances like heroin and methamphetamine in various parts of the country, including KZN. This trend underscores the necessity for targeted interventions to address substance abuse issues.

Role of GEZUBUSO Projects

The persistent socio-economic issues in KZN highlight the ongoing need for organizations like GEZUBUSO Projects to support vulnerable populations and foster sustainable development.