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This article describes the evaluation of the HIV/AIDS communication aspect of the multi media Soul City health promotion intervention in South Africa. The intervention consists of a television and radio drama and print material. The evaluation was multifaceted with a before and after national survey and a national qualitative study. In the before and after survey change was measured and then multiple regression analysis was performed to assess the variables associated with the change. The qualitative study consisted of focus group discussions, which were analysed thematically. The studies show that there are numerous instances of community change and how the change is mediated at the community level. The studies also describe the change at a number of levels of the described behaviour change model for individuals.

Objective: Soul City is a South African multimedia edutainment health communication intervention. The Soul City adult series targets previously disadvantaged African and Coloured South Africans.Methods: Soul City 's impact on individuals, interpersonal processes and communities was investigated in the context of the broader socio-political environment. The evaluation comprised: 1. Pre/post-intervention surveys nationally; 2. A national qualitative impact assessment; 3. Ninety-seven semi-structured interviews assessing the impact of the intervention's advocacy strategy; 4. Monitoring of the national print and electronic media over a six-month period; 5. Monitoring of the 'Stop Woman Abuse' Helpline calls over a five-month period; and 6. The compilation of a database of organisations reached nationally.Results: Soul City is a popular, credible vehicle that reached more than 80% of its target audience. It was effective in increasing health literacy, especially with reference to domestic violence and HIV/AIDS. The intervention facilitated the speedy implementation of the Domestic Violence Act and increased access to support services. Soul City shifted community norms and stimulated community dialogue.Conclusion: Soul City's effectiveness is partially attributable to the fact that it deals with multiple issues comprehensively; multiple intervention components impact synergistically on individuals, communities and broader societal processes.

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This paper outlines the programming model employed by the Soul City Institute for Health and DevelopmentCommunication, a South African NGO, in using 'edutainment' to facilitate social change. The paper refers to the intersection of this model and current thought on health promotion and various social change theories. It also discusses key challenges and factors contributing to sustainability over 12 years.