Sikiliza Leo Project, Uganda

Johnson & Johnson, its Tibotec subsidiary and the African Medical Research Foundation help the Ugandan NGO Sikiliza Leo to provide HIV testing, counseling, treatment and care in rural Uganda. Since March 2003, HIV testing and counseling have been offered to 3,586 community members, of whom 559 have tested positive for HIV. A total of 272 persons receive Home Based Care and a first group of 20 are now receiving ARV therapy. Basic drug kits containing a variety of essential medicines, including miconazole MAT and co-trimoxazole prophylaxis, are among the tools used by home care volunteers. The program has also established two day-care facilities that support some 250 orphans and vulnerable children in Mulanda and Lwala parishes. Psychosocial development, education, nutrition and care are offered to children from 3 to 8 years of age. The program has been recognized by the American Embassy, and a grant has been provided to improve facilities and food.