HIV as a priority

Location: Phnom Penh

Situation

Despite Norodom Sihamoni s recent succession to the throne after the abdication of his father Norodom Sihanouk, who had been monarch since 1941, the Phnom Penh regime continues to be characterised by authoritarianism and corruption. The influence of religion and the widespread system of prebends, particularly in relation to natural resources, puts the economic future of the kingdom at risk. More than a third of the population lives below the poverty line and AIDS is endemic, with prevalence rate of two percent. The government has recognised this as a public health priority.

Activities:

MdM’s project focuses on medical and psychosocial care for destitute people living with HIV/AIDS.The programme includes:
• Specialist treatment for patients infected with HIV;
• Training doctors;
• Information sessions for patients about the virus and the treatment;
• Hospital treatment on opportunistic infections;
• Development of a continuum of care, a network of help and support for people living with HIV/AIDS;
• Support for Cambodian NGOs involving people living with HIV/AIDS.

In 2006, the key event was the creation of a local NGO called SEAD (Sharing Experience for Adapted Development) by MdM staff.This NGO will gradually take over the whole programme between 2008 and 2009.

Outlook:

It will be most important to participate in building up SEAD and training its members to ensure that the NGO will be operational and able to continue the activities after handover.
By December 2007, 2,000 patients will be regularly monitored in the consultation centre.

Project start date: April 1999

End date: September 2009