COWLHA's 'Youth Adherence on ART' Project Transforms HIV/AIDS Care for Malawi Youth
The project, which operates across three Traditional Authorities in Chikwawa district, is receiving support from AIDS FONDS in the Netherlands.
Chikwawa, Malawi - The Coalition for Women Living with HIV/AIDS (COWLHA) has launched the 'Youth Adherence on ART' project in Chikwawa, Malawi, providing local youth with crucial information and resources to access Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) services, writes Moses Thole.
The project, which operates across three Traditional Authorities in Chikwawa district, is receiving support from AIDS FONDS in the Netherlands.
Through the formation of 18 youth groups within the communities of Lundu, Kasisi, and Ngabu, young people now have the opportunity to interact, share experiences, and develop skills for discussing sensitive issues with their parents.
Since its inception in 2018, the 'Youth Adherence on ART' Project has made significant strides in improving adherence to prescription drugs, particularly within the communities where it is active.
Felix Zaawiri, an Executive Member from Tiyese Support Group, attested to the project's transformative impact, saying, "Many young people have been convinced through awareness campaigns conducted by COWLHA. I used to shy away from discussing HIV and AIDS issues with my parents, but the project has helped me interact with fellow youths and parents through support groups."
The project has not only facilitated access to ART services but has also enhanced economic empowerment among the youth.
Members of the 18 groups have received sewing machines, formed business groups, and even received goats through a pass-on initiative, enabling them to become self-reliant.
Stelia Zeka of Tigwirizane Youth Support shared her personal improvement in drug uptake and expressed hope that more youths on treatment would be inspired by the project's success. "Through the project, I am now accessing drugs closer and am following my prescription religiously," she disclosed.
Beatrice Munyowa, COWLHA District Coordinator for Chikwawa, noted that over 3000 youths across the three communities are now able to access ART through the project.
However, she also highlighted challenges, including the need for funding to support their activities.
Munyowa said, "When meeting the youth in their clubs, we need transport and food, but lack of funding is hampering these efforts. We would love to spread our activities to all Traditional Authorities in Chikwawa."
COWLHA emphasized that stigma often leads many young people in Malawi to avoid health facilities for ART access.
Nevertheless, the 'Youth Adherence on ART' project is gradually eroding this stigma and providing vital support to the youth in their journey towards healthier lives and economic self-sufficiency.