THAD0404 | BREAKING THE SILENCE: COMMUNITY DIALOGUES AS A TOOL TO SHIFT HARMFUL GENDER NORMS AMONG YOUTH IN NKANGALA DISTRICT, MPUMALANGA

Tshepo M. Ndhlovu¹, Phumzile Ngodela², Ndumiso Tshuma² | ¹Best Health Solutions, Johannesburg, South Africa; ²Civil Society Forum, Mpumalanga, South Africa

Gender inequality and harmful social norms continue to drive high rates of HIV, gender-based violence (GBV), and unintended pregnancy among adolescents and young people in Mpumalanga. In Nkangala District, adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) and adolescent boys and young men (ABYM) face age- and gender-specific challenges rooted in intergenerational silence, restrictive masculinities, and normalized power imbalances. In response, a series of structured intergenerational and multi-stakeholder community dialogues were implemented to address the root causes of these challenges by creating safe, inclusive spaces for open conversation among AGYW, ABYM, male sexual partners (MSPs), parents, and community leaders. A qualitative, community-led approach was used to convene over 25 community dialogues across five sub-districts in Nkangala between 2023 and 2024. Participants included 420 individuals aged 15–55, comprising AGYW, ABYM, MSPs, parents, educators, healthcare providers, and traditional and religious leaders. Dialogues were guided by trained community facilitators using participatory methods such as story circles, reflective questioning, and problem-solving exercises. Pre- and post-dialogue feedback was collected through focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and participatory reflection tools. Thematic content analysis was used to identify emerging behavioral and attitudinal shifts. Dialogues resulted in increased awareness and critical reflection on gender roles, consent, healthy relationships, and shared responsibility for sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Among AGYW and ABYM participants, 74% reported improved communication with parents and peers about SRH issues. Over 60% of MSPs expressed a change in attitudes towards gender-equitable relationships and reduced use of coercive behaviors. Parents reported improved openness in discussing sexuality and values with their children. Community leaders committed to reinforcing positive messaging through public platforms and local institutions. The process also uncovered deep-seated myths and silence around sexuality that hinder youth access to services and support. Community dialogues in Nkangala proved to be an effective mechanism for disrupting harmful gender norms and facilitating behavioral change across generations. The inclusive, non-judgmental approach helped normalize discussions around SRH, gender equality, and HIV prevention. Scaling up such dialogues, institutionalizing them within ward-based outreach programs, and linking them with existing youth-friendly services can amplify their impact.