South Africa, Dec. 1 -- South Africa is observing World Aids Day 2025 on 1 December, under the theme "Overcoming Disruption: Transforming the AIDS Response."

AI companions

She highlighted the introduction of digital companions, which has marked a step-change in HIV prevention, extending the reach of nurses and social workers and providing young people with private, judgment-free support 24/7.

Early insights from Shout-It-Now's AI companion pilot, AIMEE, revealed a significant trend: many young people prefer opening up to an AI companion before approaching a nurse or counsellor, often because of stigma, fear of judgment, or the sensitivity of the issues they face.

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Self-Cav rollout

The or...