This case study documents the story of the HIV/AIDS Prevention Group in Bela Bela, Limpopo province, in South Africa.  

HAPG has led the way in pioneering layperson-managed clinics supervised by an HIV and AIDS specialist administering antiretroviral treatment (ART), in a province (Limpopo) that is still struggling to provide an effective primary health care system.

The document describes the work of HAPG through the words of the authors, of the founding members, of the current team, of the medical staff, of patients, and of members of the Bela Bela community. Three sections, learning together, building together, and making change happen outline the development of the organisation and provide a critical analysis of its success.

Through the work of HAPG, the people in Bela Bela have come to see that they can turn around a situation of death, despair, fear and shame, making it one where people can come forward and claim the right to stay alive. 

This document is one of a number of publications highlighting NGO good practice and innovations from partner organisations supported by Oxfam in South Africa.