Thondwe, Malawi … The HIV/AIDS pandemic came to the limelight 1985 after the first case was diagnosed in Malawi. Since then, a great deal of focus has come to bear on the problem, in order to bring awareness concerning the dangers, and how to prevent further transmission. Among the initiatives, the Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) was put in place, but for a time it received growing resistance because many people feared discrimination if their status was known to be HIV positive. Some sources conclude that only an estimated 1% of the adult population had access to VCT services by 2003. Too, resources were very limited because there were few supporters involved in the programs in those early days.
However, as the years have passed, the awareness campaigns have been intensified. VCT services are far more accessible, even in the “hard to reach” rural areas. During 2010 alone a total of 1,726,762 people over the age of 15 were tested, according to published reports.
VCT Center at Namikango 
For years the Namikango Mission Clinic has provided a receptive environment for Voluntary Counseling and Testing services. Testing 2,517 in 2010 and 2,455 in 2011 reflects the success of its outreach. The center provides Prevention of the transmission of mother to child, in the Mother to Child Treatment (PMCT) program, provision for ARVs, and free testing and support group services are made available to the public.
Haswel Chasale, a VCT counselor at the center makes this observation, “The prevalence rate has drastically declined to 8% in 2011, as compared to 14% in 2009/2010” This is the result of more awareness and voluntary testing and counseling. More and more people are taking advantage of these programs.”
In 2011 the center was named the second best VCT program in the district, second only to the Zomba Central Hospital.
Support group at the Center
Responding to the increasing number of HIV cases, a support group was established at Namikango in June 2007. Including men, women and children who have tested positive, this group meets every Thursday for encouragement. Bible teachers from the Mission bring the Word of God, and encourage the attendees to have hope after receiving the news of their HIV status. Additionally, they are taught good nutrition practices, and ways to prepare a balanced meal menu.
The group currently has thirty-two members, but only five are men. Men are said to be reluctant to join the group, as they fear being recognized HIV positive. Discrimination seems to be the major enemy to fight against the disease.
To learn about the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Malawi, click here.