The aim of Super Buddies Club as an organisation is to:

• bring children together to share ideas, views, and experiences on issues affecting them and to empower them with life skills;
• instil positive living values among children and youth around issues such as abstinence and faithfulness;
• improve knowledge and attitudes on HIV/AIDS and other issues affecting children and youth through activities and the production of information, education and communication materials;
• promote a culture of reaching out to help other young people in need; and
• advocate for children’s rights in order to create a conducive environment for children and youth to reach their full potential.

These objectives are achieved through the magazine and the clubs. The Super Buddies Magazine, supported by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), was initially launched in July 2003 following a needs assessment survey by the non-governmental organisation, Open Society Initiative for Southern Africa. The survey found that children needed a platform through which to voice their thoughts and concerns. The magazine, as it is currently run, is published bi-monthly with support from sponsors. 10,000 copies are distributed for free to schools and communities where Super Buddies Clubs are active as well as to 15 national libraries. It is also sold at a minimum fee in outlets to children who are not able to receive them in other centres. The magazine uses a comic format with cartoon characters answering questions on a variety of themes affecting young people in Swaziland such as HIV/AIDS and children’s rights. The magazine also contains messages and letters written by children and encourages the formation of more clubs in schools and communities.

The Super Buddies Clubs were established and are run by Miles Communication with the assistance of the Ministry of Education. So far, Super Buddies Clubs have been formed in 27 schools, both primary and high schools, and in 10 communities across Swaziland. Here children come together and discuss issues affecting them which include HIV/AIDS, abuse, peer pressure, and drug and alcohol abuse. The clubs do this with the guidance of Super Buddies Club field officers and teachers. Through road shows and outreach programmes the clubs also conduct community peer education activities using drama, music, dance, poetry, and cultural activities.

Children, Youth, HIV/AIDS, Reproductive Health, Rights

Swaziland is currently documented as leading in the world in HIV prevalence. According to the organisers, it is crucial to include children and young people in any prevention approach. They also believe that the peer-to-peer approach is key to the success of the programme.