ABOUT GOVUKA

In the Kingdom of Eswatini, adolescent girls who engage in sex with older men (also known as “blessers”) are 5 times more likely to be infected with HIV and to fall pregnant. Govuka delivers targeted, relatable information to improve the health and agency of young people in Southern Africa.  We provide resources to educate girls who are unaware of the risks associated with intergenerational relationships. 

Govuka was founded in 2021 and our immediate goal is to reach and educate 20 000 girls between the ages of 11 and 19 in Eswatini by 2026. One of our key strategies for achieving this goal is through a peer-driven curriculum.

Our Vision

We envision an Eswatini where young people have access to the information and support they need to reach their full potential.

Our Mission

Our aim is to improve the wellbeing and economic outcomes of adolescent girls by demonstrating the benefits of not engaging in intergenerational relationships.

THE GOVUKA TEAM

OUR FOUNDING MEMBERS

Philile Shongwe

Founder & Executive Director

Thandwa Maphalala

Communications Director

OUR ADVISORY TEAM

Yandiswa Xhakaza

Principal Director (UCT Online High School)

Taylor Conger

Managing Director (Duke-UNICEF Innovation Accelerator)