FHI - FHI Launches Counseling and Testing Site in Mbuji-Mayi

DECEMBER 2007 — FHI marked World AIDS Day Nov. 29 by launching a counseling and testing (CT) site in Mbuji-Mayi. Funding is from the US Department of Defense. During the ceremony, General Bahuma Ambamba, chief of the DRC Army's national HIV/AIDS program, showed his support by being publicly counseled and tested. Approximately 80 troops followed suit.

On Nov. 29, an interview with FHI Country Director Dr. Mabasi Mayala broadcast on Radio Okapi called attention to World AIDS Day and FHI's work in DRC. Radio Okapi is the only station that reaches the entire country.

Counseling and Testing in DRC Since 2002
In October 2007, FHI launched a CT site in Lubumbashi, funded by the US Department of Defense. Since then another site was launched in Mbuji-Mayi, and an additional site is to be launched in Bukavu, in the Eastern Region.

CT site in Mbuji-Mayi

Between Oct. 2002 and Sept. 2005, FHI developed seven CT sites under the USAID-funded IMPACT Project in four cities and towns—Kinshasa, Matadi, Mbuji-Mayi, and Lodja. During this period at these sites, 57,999 clients were tested, and 50,099 returned for their results. Of these, 7,933 tested HIV-positive, and 6,141 were referred to care.

Since Oct 2005, FHI/DRC has been running a USAID-supported CT program in Bukavu, Lubumbashi, and Matadi and developing community-based, integrated, and mobile CT models to reach different vulnerable populations. An additional model targeting youth is being developed in Lubumbashi.

At the mid-point of the four-year program, the following results have been reached:
• 58,481 clients tested
• 56,200 returned for their results
• 5,894 tested positive
• 3,694 referred to care and treatment

Military and MOH officials on World AIDS Day

PHOTOS
(top) After General Bahuma Ambamba, commander of the 5th Military Region, agreed to be publicly tested for HIV, about 80 soldiers followed suit.

(middle) A new counseling and testing center at Mbuji-Mayi was launched on World AIDS Day 2007.

(bottom) Dignitaries gathered to mark the launching of the new counseling and testing center. Mbuji-Mayi Nov. 29. Gen. Bahuma Ambamba is seated in the front row, second from left, and the provincial minister of health is on his right.