AEGiS-14IAC: A model of care for mothers and children infected with and / or affected by HIV/AIDS in Kigali city.

14th International AIDS Conference


Barcelona, Spain - July 7-12, 2002

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A model of care for mothers and children infected with and / or affected by HIV/AIDS in Kigali city.

Int Conf AIDS 2002 Jul 7-12; 14:(abstract no. G12513)

Ndayisaba D, Foex JM, Uwayisenga S
AFXB, Kigali, Rwanda

ISSUES: Rwanda is among the African countries hardest hit by HIV/AIDS. In Kigali city, approximately 20% of the population is living with HIV/AIDS. Most of them are widows with an average of 5 dependants, including their own children, and orphans whose parents have died of AIDS. Their earnings are not sufficient to cover all their needs. Consequently, they are not able to feed their children and them-selves appropriately These children are frequently hospitalized and cannot have access to education. Sometimes these women are forced to choose prostitution as an income option despite the high risk involved. AFXB has been implementing a program to assist the most vulnerable families to meet their basic needs and to ensure that they have the means to take care of themselves in the future (sustainability).

DESCRIPTION: AFXB is assisting 240 families with income generating activities (IGAs). Heads of the families and their children are receiving basic medical services, including treatment for opportunistic infections. Eight hundred (800) children and adolescents are provided with school support (fees, educational material, nutrition, etc), and psychosocial support. Lessons learned and

RECOMMENDATIONS: A hopeless HIV/AIDS victim can quickly recover with dignity, when provided with basic and sustainable support. Their testimonies are worthwhile in the fight against AIDS and should encourage us and others to keep fighting this disease. Comprehensive programs targeting psychosocial and health issues tend to be more efficient and sustainable.

Keywords: AEGIS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, HIV Infections, AIDS Dementia Complex, Mothers, HIV Seropositivity, Health Services Needs and Demand, Family, Parents, Child of Impaired Parents, Cities, Child Welfare, Rwanda, Child, Human, Female, Adolescence, Education, Economics

020707
G12513

Copyright © 2002 - International AIDS Society (IAS). Reproduction of this abstract (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through the IAS.