Foundation to give cash to people living HIV

Charity Chikara, Sunday News Reporter
AIDS Health Foundation Zimbabwe will distribute about US$30 000 per month to people living with HIV and Aids to boost their nutrition and improve their immune systems.

In an interview at Mpilo Centre of Excellence for HIV and Aids last week, AHF Country programme manager Dr Ernest Chikwati said the idea of the food aid programme came after considering the effects of Covid-19 on people’s lives and economic challenges.

“We realised that some people’s body mass index (BMI) was very low and that’s a major indicator of malnourishment. So we decided that instead of giving them medication only, it’s better to support the people holistically as well. Considering the pandemic that has hit hard and economical challenges we initiated the food programme countrywide,” he said.

Dr Chikwati said AHF’s assistance was mainly aimed at availing a balanced diet for the patients.

“So basically coming up with the list of food items we distribute we considered a balanced diet. One would need a source of protein, carbohydrates, essential oils, fatty acids. Mealie-meal, sugar beans, cooking oil and peanut butter are the main food items we give them,” he said.

Dr Chikwati pledged support to the Ministry of Health and Child Care when it comes to HIV care and treatment endeavours.

“It’s been five years of a good relationship with the Ministry, I can safely say we are permanent partners”, he said.
AHF Zimbabwe is supporting the Ministry of Health and Child Care in establishment of Centres of Excellence (COE’s).

The main purpose of the centres is to provide quality and free health services to people living with HIV and Aids with complex medical conditions who are referred from across the country.