Kombi drivers undergo voluntary HIV testing

 

Of the 215 drivers and touts tested, 35 were women.

The programme, which was carried out at some termini, was coordinated by Youths For Today and Tomorrow (YTT) and Matabeleland Aids Council (MAC).

The campaign ran between 23 March and 12 April at places that included Gumtree and Basch Street terminus popularly known as Egodini.

MAC officials said the exercise would resume soon.

In an interview yesterday, MAC New Start manager Mr Chris Ngulube praised the commuter omnibus operators, drivers, conductors and touts for demonstrating responsibility by undergoing the HIV testing and counselling.

“We conducted tests on site only twice and the turnout was overwhelming. Public transporters totally proved wrong the assumption that they are carefree people,” said Mr Ngulube.

“When we took our services to them, they showed that they are a group of concerned and responsible citizens.”

He said plans were underway to spread the programme to termini such as Sekusile Shopping Centre in Nkulumane and Entumbane Shopping Complex.

“We are planning to go to other bus termini for testing and counselling and this time we are trying to make it possible for those who missed last time’s exercises by going to high-density suburbs,” said Mr Ngulube.

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