AEGiS-15IAC: Scaling up of PLHA responses through Strong Coalitions: Uganda's Experience.

15th International AIDS Conference

Bangkok, Thailand - July 11-16, 2004

Scaling up of PLHA responses through Strong Coalitions: Uganda's Experience.

Int Conf AIDS 2004 Jul 11-16; 15:(abstract no. D10266)

Talugende S, Mwirumubi J, Mworeko L
National Forum of PLHA Networks in Uganda, Kampala, Uganda

ISSUE: PLHA have been key actors in the fight against HIV/AIDS however, in a fragmented and isolated manner. PLHA in Uganda used to work sometimes as competitors but not as comrades in the fight. Through joint meetings and retreats facilitated by UNAIDS and the Uganda AIDS Commission, PLHA realized that lack of a well-coordinated PLHA Forum/Coalition weakened their influence they could have on policies and program. They therefore decided to fully utilize the opportunities offered within the framework of the HIV/AIDS Partnership in Uganda to form the Forum.

DESCRIPTION: This paper will explore the experience of the National Forum of PLHA Networks in Uganda and how the concept of leadership among PLHA is changing. PLHA leadership that visualize changing the focus of PLHA activities to fit the evolving environment and developments. Leaderships that is transaction in linking PLHA activities to rewards and benefits, ensure network members equitably have access to necessary resources and can apply contingence leadership theories. PLHA programs that are modeled towards creation or modification of activities, resource maximization; policy development at national and community levels; systems development and change through changed relationships between PLHA networks; and social and community mobilization aimed at strengthening PLHA activities at community level.

LESSONS LEARNT: Taking PLHA through a process of joint strategic planning that identifies shared priorities and the overarching principles of joint working that include the roles of the PLHA networks in achieving those priorities reduce duplication, conflict and competitions among PLHA. Working together strengthens advocacy for access for all and promote understanding of the power of numbers. Recommendation: To reduce token participation of PLHA in responses against HIV/AIDS, the capacity of PLHA networks should be developed to facilitate collaboration and partnerships.

Keywords: AEGIS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, HIV Infections, Uganda, Health Planning, Health Planning Guidelines, HIV Seropositivity, Public Policy, Policy Making, organization & administration

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