HIV/AIDS & OVC
Over the years, Sapphire Africa Foundation has collaborated with district health departments, faith-based organizations, government and non-government health facilities, hospitals, and development partners, including district action centres. These partnerships are vital for strengthening referrals and linkages between households and service providers.
A key focus of Sapphire Africa Foundation’s work is HIV prevention and treatment. We deliver HIV and violence prevention education to HIV-negative children, aiming to promote positive behaviour outcomes. Additionally, we recognize the importance of connecting communities to services provided by local governments and economic growth partners, ensuring sustainable access to health services.
The SAF CARES project, driven by Sapphire Africa Foundation, exemplifies how routine supervision can be a powerful tool in the fight against HIV. By integrating supervision into every aspect of our intervention—from pill counting and ART adherence to behavior change communication and APN services—we ensure that our project goals are met with precision and care. This approach has resulted in a significant reduction in new HIV infections and improved management of existing cases, paving the way for healthier, more resilient communities.
The SAF CARES project, driven by Sapphire Africa Foundation, exemplifies how routine supervision can be a powerful tool in the fight against HIV. By integrating supervision into every aspect of our intervention—from pill counting and ART adherence to behavior change communication and APN services—we ensure that our project goals are met with precision and care. This approach has resulted in a significant reduction in new HIV infections and improved management of existing cases, paving the way for healthier, more resilient communities.
SAF CARES: Ensuring High-Impact HIV and Violence Prevention Services
Routine supervision within the SAF CARES project serves as a critical mechanism for ensuring the delivery of high-impact HIV and violence prevention services. Through systematic oversight, Sapphire Africa Foundation has successfully implemented a range of interventions that improve health outcomes and enhance the social well-being of the communities we serve. Below is how routine supervision has made a tangible difference:
Pill Counting and ART Adherence
Effective HIV management hinges on ensuring individuals adhere to their antiretroviral therapy (ART). Through routine supervision, our health workers conduct meticulous pill counting during home visits. This approach serves as both a compliance check and an educational opportunity. By monitoring pill counts, health workers can identify patients at risk of non-adherence early, allowing for timely intervention and counselling. This method has proven effective in maintaining high levels of ART adherence, preventing the progression of HIV, and reducing the likelihood of drug resistance.
Behaviour Change Communication (BCC)
Behaviour Change Communication is essential for preventing interruptions in HIV treatment and promoting safe health practices. During routine supervision, our health workers engage directly with vulnerable children (OVC) and their caregivers, addressing key factors such as stigma, misinformation, and logistical barriers that may disrupt treatment. Through consistent, supervised interactions, the importance of continuous treatment, safe practices, and regular health check-ups is reinforced, creating a supportive environment for behaviour change.
Client Index Testing and Assisted Partner Notification (APN) Services
Client index testing and Assisted Partner Notification (APN) services are critical components for identifying and managing HIV infections. During routine supervision, health workers ensure that these services are conducted systematically and ethically. APN allows trained service providers to assist consenting people living with HIV (PLHIV) in discreetly disclosing their status or notifying their sexual partners of potential HIV exposure. This confidential process encourages partners to get tested and, if necessary, to start treatment promptly. Routine supervision ensures these sensitive procedures are handled with care, confidentiality, and professionalism, maximizing their effectiveness and acceptance.
Impact on Preventing New HIV Infections
The proactive approach of routine supervision within the SAF CARES project has had a remarkable impact on preventing new HIV infections. By closely monitoring the health practices and treatment adherence of OVC and their caregivers, Sapphire Africa Foundation has been able to:
- Ensure Consistent ART Adherence: Routine pill counting and adherence counselling minimize missed doses, significantly reducing the risk of HIV transmission.
- Facilitate Early Detection and Treatment: Through client index testing and APN services, routine supervision supports the early identification of new HIV cases, ensuring timely initiation of treatment.
- Promote Sustainable Behavior Change: Continuous education and engagement through BCC foster a culture of responsible health practices, reducing risky behaviors that can lead to HIV transmission.
