The Context

It is estimated that 1.8 million Ugandans are HIV positive, with the rate of infection growing at an alarming rate. Half the population of Uganda is under 15, and although the country is relatively stable after many years of conflict, large numbers of children have been orphaned by AIDS, as well as being infected and harmed by it in other ways. The number of street children is growing, and there is inadequate provision of youth friendly services to help the most disadvantaged children. This problem is most acute in rural and slum areas where children are even more vulnerable to HIV and AIDS. The specific health needs, concerns and problems of children and young people go unattended due to the lack of access to accurate health information, and education coupled with high levels of school drop out, illiteracy and poverty.

The Project

ChildHope is working in partnership with UYAAS and URHB in 7 districts to reduce the incidence of HIV and AIDS, by helping improve children and young people’s (CYPs) access to information, support, and prevention strategies on HIV and AIDS. The work engages with the whole community and tailors its approach according to the distinct needs of boys and girls. Specifically the work undertaken is:

• Assisting CYP to access HIV and AIDS information and support, and/or become peer supporters/ educators themselves in and out of school.
• Training teachers in order for them to actively support anti-AIDS activities within schools. These activities include addressing the stigma and discrimination encountered by those living with HIV and AIDS and campaigning for more care and support for those affected by it.
• Implementing quality child and youth friendly Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) services and free condom distribution in the 7 districts.
• Supporting young people to come together for mutual support and to give them the opportunity to raise their voice and fight against the spread of HIV and AIDS and the ignorance that exists around it.
• Creating opportunities for dialogue such as radio shows so that community, women, religious, and youth groups, as well as school administrators, health workers and policy makers at all levels can raise awareness on the impact of HIV and AIDS.
• Working to influence relevant government ministries to improve their services, and sharing experiences with other service providers to improve support systems for CYPs affected by HIV and AIDS in Uganda.

Challenges and lessons learnt:

• In the 1990s Uganda was praised for its open and honest approach to fighting the spread of HIV and AIDS. But recently due mainly to external pressures the once open approach is in danger of being undermined. This creates a challenge for organizations such as UYAAS and URHB when trying to engage government on the importance of comprehensive prevention strategies.
• The use of children and young people acting as peer educators has been instrumental in influencing behavioural change, and raising awareness at both school and community level.
• The radio talk shows have proven to be key in extending the scope of our partners’ work, especially in creating an environment where young people can honestly discuss previously taboo subjects.