Africa Region Working Paper Series No. 88

Abstract

This paper is the first in a series of efforts to document the current practices of CHBC in the Multi-Country HIV/AIDS Program (MAP) for Africa, focusing on the operational challenges and limitations. In its design, the MAP is unprecedented in its flexibility, coverage and the emphasis it places on local, community-driven initiatives responding to the HIV/AIDS crisis. Country programs are designed to encompass all sectors and the full range of HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment activities. CHBC is an example of the community-driven initiatives focusing on HIV/AIDS care and treatment activities.

Research shows that an effective and affordable CHBC for PLWHA, has the potential to positively impact the health and social status of patients, families and the community as a whole. However, research has also shown that CHBC area facing a multitude of challenges and limitations which not only adversely affect their ability to carry out their activities, but also have the potential to exacerbate poverty and existing gender inequalities among affected families and communities.

This research was conducted by ACTafrica to find out the current operational challenges and limitations faced by CHBC organizations, primarily CBOs, in selected MAP countries: Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Zambia. The principal findings of the research are the basis of the key recommendations cited in this paper.

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