As you may know, I was fortunate to be selected as a participant in the joint venture between CMF, MD and Uniterra to reach out to developing countries. Today, I'm off to Malawi Africa with a Dr. Susan Gick and Dr. Mala Arasu.
Malawi is among the world's poorest countries. A considerable proportion of the population ( 40% ) lives below the poverty line and life expectancy is estimated at 49 years due to HIV and AIDS, among other factors. Agriculture is the predominant occupation of more than 80% rural citizens and one of the highest foreign income earners in Malawi. But the HIV and AIDS epidemic has decreased the economic growth of an already fragile economy as it affects people in economically productive age groups, resulting in reduced gross production.
It's estimated that close to 1 million people in Malawi are living with HIV and AIDS, including 100,000 children. Another 436,500 are orphans below the age of 15, who are usually taken care of by relatives who are already facing severe economic hardships. The epidemic has effected both urban and rural areas, though rural residence are more affected because of limited access to services.
The goal of the national HIV and AIDS response in Malawi is two-fold: Firstly to reduce HIV incidence and Secondly to improve quality of life for the infected and affected. The government of Malawi has articulated various policies and strategies to facilitate efforts of all players in the fight against HIV and AIDS. There are still a number of challenges which include: prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS; awareness levels not translating into behaviour change, stigma and discrimination hindering HIV testing and treatment, lack of access therapy services, sustainable financial resources, inconsistent knowledge and information, education and communication - prevention programs are not reaching all people living with HIV/AIDS and other high risk groups.
For the next 4 weeks I will be working with two partner organizations MANET "Malawi network of people living with HIV/AIDS" and PACAM "Palliative Care Association of Malawi" focusing on three main issues. Issue 1: inadequate capacity to effectively implement HIV/AIDS programs with a focus on fundraising, nutrition, integration of gender equality and financial management. Issue 2: Prevention programs and activities not reaching high risk groups such as prisoners and commercial sex workers with the priority to reduce further spread of HIV. Issue 3: inadequate care and support for people living with HIV/AIDS with the priority to improve access, support and care through increased knowledge and skills in palliative care.