16 000 benefit from HIV project in Blantyre

About 16 000 people in Blantyre have benefitted from a five-year HIV response project implemented by One Community organisation in the district.

Briefing Blantyre District Executive Committee (DEC) yesterday, the organisation’s team leader Emily Kayimba said she was satisfied with the project’s achievements after five years of implementation.

She said: “We tested 16 635 people, exceeding the target of 16 464.

“We also succeeded in protecting orphans and vulnerable children from HIV infection and promoting their well-being.”

Kayimba attributed the success to the council’s support, citing proper coordination between the organisation and relevant government departments. 

“Besides, we trained 45 community-based organisations in HIV prevention approaches and supported 269 children with school fees,” she said.

On his part, Blantyre district social welfare officer Stephano Joseph said the project has improved many people’s lives; hence, the need to sustain it.

“The project has contributed to quality care and support to orphans and vulnerable children and people living with HIV and Aids in the district,” he said.

Joseph said the project has improved child protection case management. 

“As a district, we will ensure proper coordination and transition of the interventions,” he said.

Blantyre District Council director of planning and development Tamanya Harawa said the project was a learning process on how to handle HIV issues.

“Blantyre is one of the districts with high HIV prevalence. So, the knowledge from the project is vital to combating the virus,” he said.

Harawa commended the organisation for bidding farewell, saying it was the only way to show that the project was a success.

The five-year project was funded by the United States Agency for International Development.