Summaries of HIV/AIDS Projects in Africa
Working with LWR Partners

Niger—HIV/STD Voluntary Testing and Counseling Center

Partners: LWR and Mieus Vivre Avec Le Sida (MVS)

There are over 145,000 HIV/AIDS infected individuals in Niger, the vast majority of whom are living in the Niamey and Tahoua areas. Both of these regions are commercial centers, which are conducive to the high-risk behaviors and environment associated with the spread of the disease. Many Nigerians do not know their HIV status, and may therefore be passing on the disease unknowingly. Testing and counseling services are greatly needed, but the social stigmas associated with HIV/AIDS, as well as a lack of resources, have prohibited the expansion of such services.

GOAL: To raise awareness of HIV/AIDS and encourage the people of Niamey and Tahoua to know their HIV status. The project will provide anonymous testing and counseling both before and after the screening. In addition, the project will allow MVS to continue the multi-faceted fight against HIV/AIDS in Niger that it has been fighting since 1994, focusing on raising awareness, voluntary testing for HIV/STD status, and care and support for those living with HIV/AIDS.
LWR will assist in developing methods of community empowerment and advocacy, which are new ventures for MVS. LWR will also help MVS in identifying capacity gaps through participatory planning, monitoring, evaluating and learning activities to take place during the first year of the project.

OBJECTIVES: LWR’s partner, MVS will:

• Train village groups working with other LWR partners (ADECB, AES, FADES) to conduct awareness-raising sessions and to care for people living with HIV/AIDS.

• Village committee members will receive project management and advocacy training.

• At least 15% of the community will undergo HIV testing, and receive pre- and post- screening counseling to advise them of the dangers and consequences associated with HIV/AIDS to the end of increased condom use and decreased participation in cultural practices that promote the spread of infection.

• HIV-positive participants will receive psychosocial support from MVS staff.

• Provide early and better care and psychological support to people with positive HIV serological status through a referral program.

Total LWR Support: $109,383 through 2004.

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