East London: The Department of Health is reactivating the B-Wise platform by launching a new progressive app designed to provide adolescent and youth-friendly health services (AYFHS) and information. The event is happening today in East London, Eastern Cape, and will include a lively youth march starting from Premier Bakery in Southernwood, then proceeding along Oxford Street to the stadium.

According to South African Government News Agency, the department stated, “This exciting development reinforces our commitment to empowering young people with accessible, reliable, and youth-centred appropriate health resources.” The new B-Wise app brings innovative features, including interactive tools for sexual and reproductive health and rights, promotion of health and wellness, education, and HIV and tuberculosis prevention.

The app will be available for download on cellphones and tablets from the App Store and other applications after the launch. B-Wise is an interactive digital platform developed by the Departmen
t of Health in partnership with stakeholders including the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The aim is to improve the uptake of health services amongst adolescents and young people in South Africa, especially HIV prevention, mental health, family planning, and contraceptive use to make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.

The launch will be attended by leaders and representatives from various sectors, including health, local government, the youth sector, and non-governmental organisations. The programme will entail a youth-led panel discussion where social challenges affecting young people, especially with regards to access to health services together with recommendations will be made.

The department explained, “Young people in South Africa continue to face barriers to healthcare access and information. The reactivation of B-Wise and the introduction of this innovative app address these challenges head-on, providing a digital space where youth can ac
cess life-saving health information and services without stigma or barriers.” The government is calling on young people, community leaders, healthcare workers, and media partners to join in the march and at the launch event to celebrate the power of technology in transforming lives and breaking down healthcare barriers. “Together, we can ensure that every young person has the tools they need to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.”