Primate's World Relief andDevelopment Fund

Published purpose

The project aims to improve the health of people affected by AIDS (particularly children), to lower rates of HIV and tuberculosis (TB) infection, as well as to increase community awareness of HIV/AIDS and TB testing services, prevention, and treatment. At the time of the project launch, a study from the Human Sciences Research Council indicated that the prevalence of HIV in South Africa was at its highest rate in history. In the project target area of Ngqushwa district in the Easter Cape province, HIV prevalence rates fluctuate between 33% and 45% of pregnant women of which only 10% present for voluntary screening. In response, the project provides education and prevention services regarding pediatric AIDS, prevention of mother-to-child transmission and TB, and improves the quality of care and support for people living with AIDS and for TB patients. Pregnant women are encouraged to attend pre- and post-natal care, get screened for TB, be tested for HIV, and receive appropriate care during pregnancy. The project benefits 29,500 HIV- and TB-infected people in Ngqushwa municipality. Project activities are implemented in collaboration with Primate's World Relief and Development Fund’s local partner, Keiskamma Trust (KT).