SADC Project

SADC HIV AND AIDS FUND -ROUND III

Supporting timely screening and diagnosis of HIV and AIDS, early ART initiation and good ART adherence for the 50+ population experiencing NCDs and intersectional vulnerability.

The Malawi Network of Older Persons’ Organizations (MANEPO) with funding from the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) through HelpAge International is implementing a 2 years project in Mangochi (T/A Chimwala: St Marys, Ukaanga and Asalaam Health Center) and Zomba (T/A Nkagula: Naisi and Makwapala health centre’s) districts

The project is designed to contribute to the redress built on lessons drawn from the implementation of SADC fund-Round II.

Thus, despite efforts being made by governments and other stakeholders to achieve the UNAIDS 95:95:95 targets and end the HIV epidemic by 2030, a few challenges remain, one being that in the 3 SADC countries (Malawi, Tanzania, and Mozambique) many 50+ populations living with HIV (approximately 62%) are living lonely lives . the effects of ageing and HIV are complex and impact on overall quality of life.

Although depression is the most common condition for many people living with HIV regardless of age, for the 50+ population living with HIV, depression is 39% higher . Furthermore, people living with HIV who have depression are less likely to adhere optimally to ART.

Support community-based institutions and health systems to deliver SRH services, access to health ageing, integrated screening, management, treatment, and adherence support for 50+ population with comorbidity of HIV and non-communicable diseases (NCDs)

The project is built on lessons drawn from the implementation of SADC fund-Round II; and employs tested methodologies on the intergenerational approach to SRH, health and community systems strengthening, Mobilization and Empowerment, Promotion of Healthy Ageing, Enforcement of Rights-Based approach, improving accountability and building strong evidence base for learning, disseminating and advocating for responsive policies and laws.