CMFD produced a 13-part serial radio drama on behalf of People Opposing Woman Abuse (POWA) to highlight the intersections between HIV/AIDS and GBV in a way that is entertaining and understandable to the mostly rural target audiences. Produced in English, Isizulu, Isixhosa and Sesotho, Mahlabathe Speaks! encourages everyone to speak out about gender violence.In South Africa, violence against women has reached epidemic proportions, one of the highest rates in the world of countries collecting such data. It exists in millions of households, in every community, in every institution, in both public and private spaces. Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) cuts across race, class, ethnicity, religion and geographic location.

Aims and objectives of the drama
The radio drama specifically aims to:

• encourage a deeper awareness and understanding of the intersections between GBV and HIV
• encourage people to change their attitudes and actions towards GBV, gender equality, and HIV.
• encourage dialogue on GBV and HIV, as well as the related issues of culture and gender stereotypes both of masculinity and femininity).
• raise awareness and profile of local organisations and groups working on these issues.
• encourage community action 

Key Messages

• HIV and GBV are closely linked, to succeed against one, we must also address the other
• Change - social, cultural - is a normal part of development and living. Questioning and discussing, keeping the good and deciding to leave the harmful behind, is part of growing as a nation.
• Individuals, families and communities have the power to make change - in their lives, their homes, and their communities.
• Action on GBV, as it intersects with HIV, is imperative, both form a human rights and development perspective.
• Women's rights are human rights
• Men can be partners in ending GBV

The Drama (sample episodes)