REDUCE IMPACT OF HIV AMONG THOSE LIVING WITH INFECTION & THEIR FAMILIES

 

11% of Malawians are infected with HIV (UNAIDS 2010) which in itself is a desperate tragedy and a challenge.  But what about those affected by HIV/AIDS?The family members, the orphans, the disabled, the breadwinners, the carers.



Familes who have experienced loss of members often need extra support financially, emotionally and socially.  

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External factors like national poverty, unstable economy, food insecurity, poor education rates and a lack of employment mean that families can struggle to support themselves with food or income.  If one member becomes sick or is unable to work, this places pressure on children or youth to neglect school and bring in money.  One parent families, child-headed families or orphans all experience great challenges in such difficult socio-economic circumstances.



Psycho-social and emotional support is equally important as it is often lost when a parent or role model has fallen ill or passed away.  Children and young people are forced to find coping mechanisms for dealing with loss, stress, abandonment or responsibility.  



Future Vision endeavours to restore strength to families and help combat the impact of HIV by:



• Raising awareness of HIV/AIDS and the importance of education amongst children and young people.  
• Offering a safe environment for children and young people to play, learn and socialise.
• Promoting education over child labour and assisting kids back into school or training.  
• Initiating community based responsibility, saving schemes and  income-generating activities to achieve sustainable support for families.
• Training young leaders and promoting skills and employment opportunities.
• Encouraging community development programmes and support groups for parents/adults and the vulnerable.

MITIGATE STIGMA & DISCRIMINATION 

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Unfortunately HIV/AIDS can affect many more people than it infects due to the stigma that people can attach to it. There are many misconceptions linked to the cause and spread of HIV which can become detrimental to those coping directly or indirectly with the disease.  ​

​This can lead to situations of isolation, alienation and discrimination within families or communities.

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Those most vulnerable - often children, disabled or elderly - can find themselves rejected or abandoned by their own families if they become associated with HIV.  Orphans can grow up as aliens in their own communities if their parents were thought to have died from AIDS.  Young women or men can be stigmatised or discriminated against if they are thought to have contracted HIV through extra-marital sex.   



In Malawi, faith leaders have a vital role to play in reducing stigma and discrimination within their congregation and communities.  The Malawi Network of Religious Leaders Living with or Affected by HIV/AIDS (MANERELA+) is a unique organisation headed by religious leaders who have chosen to stand up against HIV/AIDS.  



Future Vision was born in conjunction with MANERELA+'s ideals because it aims to take bold steps towards eradicating stigmatisation and discrimination around Mzimba - from the very young to the elderly and irrespective of gender or religious belief.  Working towards social inclusion and acceptance, both organisations promote good practice in supporting those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.​

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IMPROVE KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS, LIVELIHOODS & FOOD SECURITY 

 

Although primary education is compulsory in Malawi, the rate of participation at secondary level is extremely low (UNICEF 2007-10). On top of that, HIV infection rates are highest among 15-24 year olds.  Future Vision understands that where education is lacking, the risks and impact of HIV can be greater. Children and teenagers need targeted support to encourage them in their personal, educational, skills and social development.  By ensuring that youth are better engaged and aware, Future Vision contributes to measures that are both responsive and preventative.



The Future Vision Centre strives to improve knowledge and skills through a variety of games, sports, and workshops.  These sessions are built around raising awareness on numeracy, literacy, English, creative skills, nutrition and permaculture, and the prevention of HIV/AIDS.  Play and therapeutic workshops also aim to improve personal development and mental health.  Public speaking and group games are encouraged to improve self confidence, communication and team-building skills.  



Future Vision works in partnership with MANERELA+ and Tovwirane in order to train up young people in the community to act as leaders for activities at Future Vision.  With in-depth knowledge on the science of HIV/AIDS, prevention and testing methods and training on engaging with vulnerable children, the youth of Mzimba are equipped to share learning, lead activity sessions, develop employability skills, and take ownership of the issue of HIV/AIDS.