Authored by Professor Thenjiwe Meyiwa, Vice Principal for Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation, and Commercialisation at University of South Africa, the study has highlighted a violation of the reproductive rights, dignity, and autonomy of these women, a practice that has persisted since 1997.

The report aims to shed light on the systemic nature of forced sterilisation, revealing that this practice has been carried out in hospitals and clinics, often without the informed consent of the women involved. In many cases, these women discovered they had been sterilised only after being unable to conceive or have children. The perpetrators are often health professionals working within the state-run healthcare system.

Meyiwa explained that the report was driven by the lived experiences of HIV-positive women who had suffered violations of their reproductive rights. "The objective was to bring attention to the invisible burden of forced sterilisation, which has severely impacted the lives of these women," she said. The study found that these women face not only the trauma of sterilisation but also social stigma, cultural alienation, and discrimination. In many African cultures, a woman’s ability to bear children is closely tied to her value, and the inability to do so often results in the loss of status, relationships, and even marriage prospects.

Despite the report’s release, there are concerns that the practice may still be ongoing, as no formal statement has been made to definitively end it. Meyiwa has called for clear, unequivocal policy reform to protect the rights of HIV-positive women and to ensure such atrocities are not repeated. "We need policies that specifically address the unique challenges faced by HIV-positive women, ensuring that all medical procedures are carried out with informed consent and in a manner that respects their autonomy," she stressed.

The report also highlights the need for support systems, including legal, medical, and psychological assistance for the victims. Many of these women face long-term health complications and psychological trauma as a result of the forced sterilisation. Meyiwa has appealed to funding agencies, philanthropists, and the private sector to rally behind these women, providing much-needed support to help them rebuild their lives.

Looking ahead, Meyiwa’s call to action includes the creation of a legal framework to ensure accountability and restitution for the victims, as well as resources to assist them in overcoming the lasting effects of these violations. The release of this report marks a critical step towards justice for HIV-positive women in SA, and a renewed focus on safeguarding their rights and dignity in healthcare settings.

--ChannelAfrica--