Haiti - GIPA Network +

The following activities have been executed during the period October 2005 to September 2006:

Recruitment of New Members

Since the creation of GIPA Network+, we have had a recruitment programme for PLWHA. The programme, which was continued during the reporting period, works efficiently as we have representatives at all the Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) sites where we are able to meet with newly diagnosed persons. Although not everyone diagnosed opts to join our Network, this activity allows us to offer peer-support and teach persons about positive living.

Training

Members received training in the following areas:

• Disclosure Techniques: This workshop was financed by UNFPA, UNAIDS, and CONCERN. After being trained, our members shared their knowledge at activities that were carried out in the schools, churches, and with the leaders in many communities.
• Counselling: This workshop was conducted with the support of The Haitian Study Group on Kaposi's Sarcoma and Opportunistic Infections (GHESKIO) Centre. As result of a successful workshop, participants gained employment at VCT sites and other clinics to do pre- and post-test counselling.
• Programme Management and Resource Mobilisation: These workshops were organised by CRN+ and the International HIV/AIDS Alliance.
• Communication: Two workshops on communication (The Basics of Communication and Communication Planning) were organised by CRN+ in September 2006. Forty GIPA members participated. After this workshop, two participants were then trained to train to other members who were unable to attend the September workshops.

Sensitisation Programme on Stigma and Discrimination

• Schools: From October 2005 to September 2006, the team of GIPA members visited 62 schools and sensitised 1850 young students. This was done in the following areas in the country: South (Cayes and Camp-Perrin), West (Port-au-Prince, Ganthier, Croix des Bouquets), and South-West (Jacmel).
• Community Leaders: GIPA met with various leaders and sensitised them about their involvement in the fight against HIV/ AIDS in Haiti . During these activities, 148 leaders including youth, teachers, priests and voudou practitioners, were sensitised.
• Health Care Practitioners: A survey conducted by GIPA suggested that PLWHA were being stigmatised and discriminated against by health care practitioners in clinics and hospitals. A workshop was then organised to sensitise them on the results of their actions and they were invited to change their behaviour towards PLWHA.
• 2nd Forum on the Human Rights of PLWHA. From 8-10 December 2005, a workshop on human rights was held by the National Network PLATE FORME. The session was very beneficial and PLWHA were well informed about their human rights.