President Higgins begins his visit to South Africa

CHOICE carer Irene giving HIV patient Betty advice on healthy vegetables to grow.

President Higgins is now in South Africa on the third leg of his visit to Africa, where he will view Irish Aid’s support to combat gender violence, HIV/AIDS, and the work undertaken to support the up skilling of South African professionals.

Irish Aid programmes are strengthening the capacity of community groups to promote greater integration of gender-based violence, HIV/AIDS and TB services at community level.

One such organisation is Sonke Gender Justice, which works in Gauteng province to fight against the spread of HIV and gender based violence through education and advocacy.

Irish Aid also aims to strengthen the human resource and organisational capacity of NGOs and government ministries, for enhanced economic growth and development in South Africa. Through various initiatives, Irish Aid is addressing the significant skills and capacity gaps that impede economic growth in South Africa.

Irish Aid programmes in South Africa support the fight against HIV/AIDS and gender based violence

Initiatives include support to South Africa’s Department of Trade and Industry on special economic zones, and a PhD in nursing programme to improve nurse training and the capacity of lecturers. There is also training programme in commercial law for lawyers from disadvantaged communities.

In partnership with Technoserve in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal Provinces, Irish Aid is increasing the capacity of emerging farmers at all stages, from production to access to markets.

Finally, the Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme, launched in 2012, gives the opportunity for South African students to study in Ireland. Ten fellows are currently studying, in areas such as business management, agriculture, food science & nutrition, public administration and international law. This Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme will, over time, contribute to the strengthening of human resource capacity at middle-management level in South Africa.