Aprecom Rwanda

The Context

The events of 1994, when around 1 million Rwandans were brutally killed in genocide, had a devastating impact on the country and its people. Today Rwanda is rebuilding itself socially and economically, with communities determined to restore their lives. But this optimism for the future is challenged by the presence of HIV disease. With around 3% of the adult population living with HIV, and over 200,000 children orphaned by AIDS, the task of building healthy stable lives is not easy.

The Project

Aprecom (AIDS Prevention and Care Outreach Ministry) gives practical home-based care, material and financial support and counselling to adults and children living with HIV or AIDS in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. Members of the team also visit clients in hospital, bringing food and emotional support.

Adult support groups provide opportunity for friendship, and training is given on issues such as healthcare and parenting. Group activities such as small-scale agriculture, goat rearing and mat and bag production, are in operation. These help adults to earn income or produce food, so providing for their children.

Inshuti Nziza, meaning ‘good friends’, are support clubs for children who may have HIV themselves or have been orphaned by the disease. Here, children can play, build friendships, learn life skills and develop supportive relationships with team members.

The Results

• Health and quality of life is improved for adults and children living with HIV and AIDS.
• Loneliness and isolation is reduced.
• Children infected with HIV or orphaned by the disease are experiencing love and care.

BCT’s Involvement

• Information resources. Advice and training in project management and development.
• Financial support for food and school costs for children and their families.