Tu D, Kos N, Culbert H, Migabo K, Amisi T; International Conference on AIDS (15th : 2004 : Bangkok, Thailand).
Int Conf AIDS. 2004 Jul 11-16; 15: abstract no. TuPeE5423.
MSF Holland, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Issues: Food insecurity and malnutrition are endemic to the DRC, and are arguably worse among PLWHA. Without access to appropriate food, effective care for PLWHA becomes near impossible. The city of Bukavu, like other cities in the DRC, exists in an environment of chronic conflict and recurrent episodes of humanitarian crisis. This has resulted in the near collapse of most social structures, including healthcare. Insecurity, poverty and the lack of infrastructure make the implementation of programs difficult. This medical, social, and economic situation is not unique to Bukavu. The experiences of implementing food security and nutritional programs in Bukavu can provide valuable strategies for future programs. Description: MSF has been working in Bukavu since 2000 and in April 2003, in cooperation with FAO, established a food security program for PLWHA (via distribution of seeds and tools and agricultural support); and in October 2003, in cooperation with WFP, established a nutritional support program (via distributions of dry rations and nutritional education). In 2003, over 200 families affected by HIV/AIDS received seeds, tools and agricultural support (with over 90% being able to attain land for cultivation and reap a crop); and over 70 families received direct nutritional support. These programs have facilitated the success of the medical management of HIV, as expressed by a general pattern of weight gain among treated patients. Lessons learned: Despite insecurity and a lack of infrastructure, interagency cooperation between medical and nutritional organizations can lead to success in overcoming the challenges of food insecurity and malnutrition. Recommendations: Build on the initial success of the Bukavu program and promote similar programs and collaborations in other regions of the DRC in 2004.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Congo
- Delivery of Health Care
- Demography
- Food
- Food Supply
- Humans
- Malnutrition
- Poverty
- Starvation
- War
Other ID:
UI: 102283225
From Meeting Abstracts