Thobani Ncapayi

Thobani Ncapayi was the only male member of the Bambanani Women’s Group in Cape Town, contributing his perspective to the Body Mapping project on living with HIV/AIDS. His work reflects both personal memory and social commentary, recalling his youth in Ciskei while highlighting the reluctance of many men to seek HIV testing and treatment. Balancing participation in the group with his livelihood as a vegetable vendor, he eventually left to become more actively involved in the Treatment Action Campaign. Through his story, Thobani emphasised the importance of awareness, early treatment, and community support in confronting the epidemic.