Abstract

Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu* and Salma Abdi Mahmoud

ABSTRACT

HIV infection remains a significant health threat for young girls, particularly in low-income regions where economic and social vulnerabilities contribute to their increased risk of transmission. This review explores the role of economic empowerment and social support programs in preventing HIV among young girls, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach. Economic empowerment through education, vocational training, and financial independence can help reduce dependence on transactional sex, while social support programs, including mentorship and peer networks, provide emotional resilience and improve decision-making. Programs that integrate both economic and social interventions have proven successful in reducing HIV vulnerability by addressing the root causes of risk, such as gender inequality and lack of access to resources. This review highlights several successful models, including microfinance initiatives and community-based support systems, which have helped young girls avoid high-risk behaviors and delay sexual initiation. Moreover, the promotion of gender equality and challenging harmful societal norms is crucial in protecting young girls from sexual violence and exploitation, which are major drivers of HIV transmission in many communities.