ZINAHCOApex body of housing Cooperatives in Zimbabwe Membership 10 587 (Females 4 549, Males: 6

038) Affiliates; 199Where we work: Harare/ Chitungwiza, Bulawayo,

Masvingo, Mutare, Chiredzi, Chipinge, Kariba, Kwekwe, Mvuma, Bindura, Victoria Falls and Shurugwi

Background to the program

As an organisation (then Housing People of Zimbabwe) we noticed that members were being affected by HIV/ AIDS in one way or another.

We decided to kick-start a program on HIV/ AIDS which would largely be informed by the members themselves.

We also learnt from NACHU which was implementing a program on AIDS and Housing.

Background to the HIV/AIDS Program2004 - assessment of the impact of HIV/ AIDS on 2004 - assessment of the impact of HIV/ AIDS on

housing cooperatives which was done by Daniel housing cooperatives which was done by Daniel Mashumba and co.Mashumba and co.

Results were presented to members and this led to an Results were presented to members and this led to an agreement to pilot an HIV/ AIDS program within the agreement to pilot an HIV/ AIDS program within the movement.movement.

A Pilot program was conducted with ten housing A Pilot program was conducted with ten housing cooperatives which led to identification of needs of cooperatives which led to identification of needs of members and fed into the current HIV/ AIDS program members and fed into the current HIV/ AIDS program though of course with major reviews.though of course with major reviews.

Cooperatives started with Welfare Desks: Which Cooperatives started with Welfare Desks: Which provided mainly information and awareness to provided mainly information and awareness to members.members.

Key response to HVI/ AIDS issues has largely been as follows:-

Awareness raising on what HIV/ AIDS is and how it impacts negatively on housing.

After the training there has been formation of support groups specifically of PLWHA who are mainly supported by members.

Support groups provide a safety net for members and provides a platform where members can educate each other and give each other support on AIDS issues

Through awareness raising: Three cooperatives of PLWHA were formed in Chitungwiza and Masvingo (new group) and an old cooperative in Masvingo. Of the three already one has accessed housing

Topics covered under capacity building for PLWHAHIV and AIDS AwarenessNutrition Information

Psycho Social Support and training

Nutrition Gardens Gender and HIV/AIDSYouth and HIV/AIDSInformation on referrals

is also provided.

Gender, Disability and youth Women, PWD and

youth training also incorporates HIV/ AIDS training due to the vulnerability of this group.

Training also focuses on property rights and access (support provided by Women In Law Southern Africa)

Lessons LearnedFormation of Support Groups is key to provide necessary psycho

social support needed by members. Its also a safety net for members.

Housing Cooperatives are a good platform for educating members, and providing a safe haven where AIDS issues can be discussed. After awareness training members are able to mobilise themselves in response which is important in the fight against AIDS.

Demystifying HIV/ AIDS through awareness raising leading to more people coming out to declare their status.

PLWHA are a powerful group and are lobbying for greater inclusion and involvement pushing for a representative to sit on the board to represent their issues.

Networking provides the prerequisite support needed by members who in turn cascade the lessons learnt to other members.

Challenges Faced Limited AIDS funding, including for AIDS Service Organisations

which limits support services given to PLWHA Non Performing economy which means members are struggling to

make ends meet. Donor Dependency: some members still expect welfare as

opposed to capacity building and awareness. High death rate of members who are not seeking

support/treatment because of fear of stigma and discrimination Limited access to nutritional food Slow progress in developing conducive shelter leading to

members being affected by lack of adequate shelter. Inheritance Issues: still a challenge especially for women and

children

Conclusion

Thank you , Tatenda, Siyabonga