MDG 6: Combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Other Diseases

Case Study: Zambia Alliance for Community Action on HIV and AIDS

The work of the Alliance for Community Action on HIV and AIDS in Zambia has heightened awareness of the importance of HIV positive mothers protecting their babies in order to achieve a generation born free from HIV. The work of the Alliance has meant an increase in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission services, as more women opt to deliver at health care facilities. This has substantially increased their chances of delivering their baby safely and HIV-free. When prevention of mother-to-child transmission services are used the chance of a baby born to an HIV-positive mother becoming infected is less than 1%. Without these services, there is a 20-45% chance.

Women at Bwfano.

International HIV/AIDS Alliance

As HIV prevention advice often contradicts traditional norms, community champions and peer educators are key when engaging tribal, religious and community leaders who are the entry point to the rest of the community. This is why the Alliance for Community Action on HIV and AIDS has spent time investing in good relations with these key individuals.