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Abstract
Optimizing HIV & AIDS prevention and care in resource poor settings; Experiences from Saba, Dutch Caribbean
J. le Sueur1, A. Radix2, C. Buncamper3
Issues:
The countries most affected by HIV/AIDS are frequently those least able to cope with the challenges. In the Caribbean, the region with the second highest prevalence of HIV, prevention efforts are often hampered by limited capacities of small island states and competing concerns e.g. poverty alleviation and disaster mitigation and recovery. Local NGOs often vie for the same pool of funds that are becoming increasingly more difficult to access, due to stricter controls on procurement, tighter oversight and reporting obligations from donors.
The prevalence of HIV in Saba doubled between 1998 and 2004. Healthcare, and particularly HIV care and prevention, was compromised by limited human and institutional capacities. Key problems identified were inadequate training of healthcare personnel, lack of support services for PWAs and difficulties with importation and funding of medication.
Description:
Saba established the NGO Platform to coordinate programs and facilitate institution building in order to address limited capacity. NGOs were organized into sectors, e.g. healthcare, environment and education. Great emphasis was placed on countering resistance of NGOs to becoming more professional and accountable entities. Capacity building was identified as a priority. The platform conducted >20 training sessions in logical framework, project management and financial reporting. Sector meetings allowed members the opportunity to plan and strategize joint funding applications and project execution.
Lessons learned:
In 2004 the NGO healthcare sector tripled its funding for projects directly related to HIV/AIDS. This was mainly due to successful project proposals filed jointly by 2 or more NGOs. Projects executed included training for healthcare providers, counseling for PLWHAs, securing anti-retroviral medications (the Medicine Bank) and providing community and school education.
Recommendations:
A greater emphasis should be placed on professionalization, capacity building and cooperation between NGOs. This can improve the ability to secure funds and ensure effective execution in situations where human resources and infrastructure are limited.
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
THPE0922
Suggested Citation
"J.leSueur, et al.
Optimizing HIV & AIDS prevention and care in resource poor settings; Experiences from Saba, Dutch Caribbean.
:
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
THPE0922"
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