f. - UZSpace Home - University of Zululand

According to the AfriAfya respondent, "there is now more openness on issues
such as HIV/AIDS. Previously, this was a taboo subject that was linked to
witchcraft. However, with the introduction of educational sessions,
discussions forums and video shows on sources of infection and ways of
prevention, more women and youth are now asking for more Voluntary
Counselling Centres and the use of condoms. As women leaders are now
also computer literate, they can help in training other community members."
The AfriAfya respondent further noted that rural women are now:
• "Better informed and can bring strong points in discussions."
• "Better empowered financially after using the information proVided to
initiate income generating activities."
The AfriAfya respondent pointed out that there is also:
• "Improved access to health facilities:"
• "Improved health seeking behaviour."
• "Increased participation in development forums."
• "More self-confidence amongst women".
The AfriAfya respondent also noted that today women "feel equal to the
urban elite since they have access to the same ICTs in the urban centres",
and that the idling of the youth in market areas has been minimised as they
have something to do in the rural computer centres.
In reference to Women'snet, the respondent noted that the organization has
initiated a computer literacy project in Limpopo Province and is now working
with high schools in the area. According to the respondent, Women'snet has
also "helped women in the computer literacy projects to overcome
technophobia". In addition to an audio based project in the Gauteng
proVince, the Women'snet respondent added that aside from the fact that
women in the computer literacy project are able to find employment by
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