Malawi Project Boosts HIV Care for Children, Pregnant Women
The project aims to address Malawi's pediatric HIV issues. As of 2022, only 71% of children aged 0-14 years living with HIV in Malawi received antiretroviral therapy.
LILONGWE, Malawi — A consortium of Malawian organizations has reported significant progress in a project aimed at improving HIV care for children and pregnant women in three districts, writes Tionge Hara.
The "Kids Health Kids Rights" project, launched in January 2024, focuses on enhancing HIV testing, treatment and adherence among children, pregnant women and lactating mothers living with HIV in Thyolo, Chiradzulu and Nkhatabay districts.
Led by the Coalition of Women Living with HIV and AIDS (COWLHA), the project has strengthened partnerships, increased access to care and empowered communities in its first six months.
"We are thrilled with the progress made in such a short period by the work of our mentor mothers," said Diana Lwesha, PMTCT Coordinator at Nkhatabay District Hospital.
"For instance, a client who discontinued ART treatment in 2015 has successfully been re-engaged in care."
The project employs a community-based approach, involving community health volunteers, support groups and partnerships with healthcare facilities and government agencies.
GVH Chiphazi of TA Mkumbira, a community champion, praised the initiative's local focus: "This model is actively involving community members. As local leaders, we have been agents of change, and they have provided us with the tools and support to drive the initiative forward."
Despite progress, the consortium acknowledges ongoing challenges, including stigma, discrimination and limited access to healthcare services in certain areas.
The project aims to address Malawi's pediatric HIV issues. As of 2022, only 71% of children aged 0-14 years living with HIV in Malawi received antiretroviral therapy.
COWLHA and its partners, including REACH Trust and Y+ Malawi, plan to expand the project's reach in coming months, working toward creating a brighter future for children living with HIV in Malawi.