Synod moves to reduce Aids-related deaths

Blantyre Synod Health and Development Commission (BSHDC), a development arm of the CCAP Blantyre Synod, has intensified efforts to reduce HIV and Aids-related deaths through mobilisation of local groups.

BSHDC officials last week visited impact areas in Blantyre Rural where the commission is implementing a four-year integrated community-based project for HIV and Aids care, support and treatment, targeting poor, vulnerable, and marginalised communities.

During the visit, Lirangwe Support Group members reported that no one died during the past three months among the 2 000 plus members living with HIV and Aids in the catchment area.

According to BSHDC monitoring and evaluation manager Steven Mkathiwa, the project has helped affected communities to put up structures and mechanisms that are reducing Aids-related deaths in  traditional authorities Kuntaja, Lundu, Kunthembwe and Chigaru covering six health facilities.

“We call this Steps Project which builds capacity in the support groups where people are trained to take care of themselves and how to adhere to ART, nutrition issues and referrals to hospitals whenever someone has fallen sick.

“So, the project helps to build a sound relationship between the support groups and the health facilities, including chiefs and faith leaders,” he said.

Justin Duwe, a health promoter from Chapasuka Support Group, called for changes to reduce delays in providing drugs, testing equipment and transport to health facilities implementing the project. n