Tanzania is making strides in tackling HIV among children and adolescents through an innovative Family-Centred Approach (FCA) led by UNICEF, the Ministry of Health, and the National Network of People Living with HIV.
According to a recent report by the Fund, the model aims to break barriers preventing children from accessing HIV testing and treatment while addressing stigma and structural inequalities.
The FCA leverages trained Treatment Advocates—community members living with HIV—to locate, link, test, and treat children who might otherwise go undiagnosed.
In just one year, over 860 children in the Mbeya and Rungwe regions were tested, with 14% testing positive. All were promptly enrolled in treatment, an extraordinary outcome in the fight against pediatric HIV.
The program also identifies missed vaccinations and other health risks, integrating comprehensive care beyond HIV.
ALSO READ Nigeria, UNESCO collaborate on Bioethics
Despite biomedical advancements, stigma and misinformation remain significant barriers as identified in this report. Families often avoid testing due to fear of discrimination, and caregivers may not understand the risk of vertical transmission. Treatment Advocates like Daina and Bahati tirelessly bridge these gaps, navigating rugged terrains and resistant attitudes to ensure no child is left behind.
Why it matters:
Globally, only 57% of children with the scourge are receiving treatment, compared to 77% of adults. Tanzania’s FCA stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that community-based interventions can drastically improve outcomes for vulnerable children.
Next steps:
UNICEF and its partners emphasize the need for expanded policy support, such as lowering the age of consent for HIV self-testing and bolstering the capacity of community health workers. By scaling this approach, Tanzania could set a global example in achieving the 2030 goal of ending AIDS in children.
This transformative effort underscores the power of collaboration, community resilience, and the urgent need to prioritize children in the global HIV response.
