Kafue District has recorded an increase in the number of paediatrics being tested for HIV in Chiawa area following the introduction of the Kids to care Paediatric HIV care project.

The Kids to care Paediatric HIV care project is being implemented by primrose Community Health Organisation in partnership with Amos Youth Centre.

Paediatric HIV testing has improved from 26 tests in the first quarter of 2024 to 698 tests in the second quarter of 2024.

Speaking during the District Paediatric Technical review meeting, Primrose community Health Organisation Executive Director, Kenan Ngambi noted that his organization which is operating in the lower Zambezi has recorded an improvement in the Paediatric HIV testing.

 ” We are happy to note the improvement in the Paediatric HIV testing in the Chiawa area, last quarter we tested 26 children and, in this quarter, we are at 698,” Mr Ngambi said.

Mr Ngambi said 44 Children who tested HIV positive are on Medical care.

He also said 6 children from the 44 who are on HIV treatment have unsuppressed viral load, and the current viral load suppression is at 86%.

”Out of the total number of Paediatric HIV testing done, 44 Children tested positive and are on Medical care. 6 children have unsuppressed viral load and viral load suppression is currently at 86%,” said Mr Ngambi.

He said the Kids to care Paediatric HIV care project seeks to scale up and enhance HIV Paediatric care through integrated family care approach.

Mr Ngambi also disclosed that Primrose in conjunction with Amos Youth Center are working on integrating climate change into Paediatric HIV care projects through provision of clean and safe drinking water and extending the feeding programs in schools.

Meanwhile, Kafue District Administrative officer, Manasseh Kalume has commended the stakeholders for supporting the government to roll out HIV testing services in the District under the Kids to care Paediatric HIV care project in the lower Zambezi.

Ms Kalume noted that the government is working so hard to ensure that HIV testing and treatment are adequately done in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

She further urged other stakeholders to emulate the works of Primrose and Amos Youth Center.

‘’As Government we commend the work that our stakeholders are rolling out in HIV delivery services in the District,” Ms Kalume said.