UNAIDS FUNDED PROJECT TO SUPPORT PLHIV MENTAL HEALTH AT COMMUNITY LEVEL
Friday, 23 August 2024
Motshane – NERCHA represented by the Hhohho regional coordination office and Implementing Partners under Motshane Inkhundla have been officially informed about a UNAIDS funded project that will be implemented by Turn It Around Organisation.
The project is aimed at supporting PLHIV mental health at community level. The project is targeting PLHIV, their families and the community at large under the Motshane Inkhundla. It aims to address stigma and discrimination towards PLHIV, promote healthier outcomes through strengthening treatment adherence initiatives including the revival of PLHIV Support groups and the provision of psychosocial support to project beneficiaries.
During the planning meeting, the stakeholders deliberated on the implementation of key activities including;
- Round table discussion forum incorporating all relevant stakeholders; Inkhundla IPs, traditional leadership structures, FBOs, clinical partners and PLHIV reps.
- Refresher training of community cadres which will be facilitated by ENAP Clinical Psychologists, development partners, SWAGAA and REPS DCS Unit.
- Community dialogues targeting PLHIV (two dialogues per chiefdom.
In the meeting NERCHA Hhohho region rep provided an overview on NERCHA’s PLHIV SG engagements, disseminated latest EHRIS updates, NSF 2024-2028 key priority areas and provided technical guidance in the planning session. TIA greatly appreciated NERCHA’s unwavering efforts in ending AIDS and promoting positive health outcomes amongst PLHIV.
The PLHIV had interest in knowing the long-term effects of the use of ART especially for their children born with HIV. They requested engagement in such issues and expressed the need for sensitization of PLHIV on side effects including hearing loss in ART long term use.
