AIDSImpact.com:: - Santa Fe, USA 2011

Abstract #138 - Empower the voice of voiceless to combat HIV epidemic
Authors: Presenting Author: Ms Nabinkala Rai - Aavash Samuha
Additional Authors:
Aim: Aavash Samuha aims to build leadership and advocacy skills of FIDU to participate meaningfully in policy making and change processes, support decision makers to improve understanding of FIDU's issues and build effective partnership. It also seeks to increase understanding of how stigma and discrimination impact the provision of Ham Reduction services for FIDUs. The project is creating an enabling environment at the policy and program level to ensure promotion of comprehensive harm reduction services to FIDU in the country in order to reduce HIV & HCV infection
Method / Issue: In Nepal, the issues of female Injecting drug users [FIDU] are tied up with the inadequate service, harmful policies, prevailing stigma & discrimination where FIDU are as leaders crafting effective harm reduction response in Nepal
Results / Comments: HIV young leaders fund(HYLF Project) is providing leadership & advocacy training, vocational training, Sexual and Reproductive Health right training , capacity building to empower FIDUs. The capacities of FIDUs have been enhanced and networking skills strengthened. Prevailing stigma and discrimination, lack of appropriate capacity by FIDU, lack of understanding of the FIDU issue by the policy makers are the major barriers faced during the project implementation. FIDUs perceived, for the first time that they were valued and needed and had skill to help others. FIDUs can be mobilized with extensive support to address behavior change and peer support. It is critical that female drug users themselves are involved in decision making process which is essential for changing behaviors, perceptions, stigma and discrimination. Skilled and extensive support specific to FIDU must be given so that FIDUs can become effective partners and leaders in the fight against epidemic.
Discussion: - Development of training capacity (human resource) as well as training manuals and curricula; - Advocacy for harm reduction program with local governmental bodies should be emphasized. - System for care to PLWH/A should be established to manage the growing numbers of people getting AIDS. - National level hospital and clinics should be contacted for referral point for services.
Go Back