Inclusion of disability within national strategic responses to HIV and AIDS in Eastern and Southern Africa

Abstract

Purpose. National strategic plans (NSPs) provide a framework for a comprehensive response to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) including strategies such as prevention, treatment, care and support for all affected. Research indicates limited recognition of the interrelationship between disability and HIV in the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA). This paper analyses the extent to which NSPs in ESA address disability, and identify good practice.

Method. Using a tool based on relevant rights in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the UNAIDS International Guidelines on HIV and Human Rights, a review of 18 NSPs in ESA was conducted to determine the extent to which they included disability.

Results. Although many NSPs fail to integrate disability issues, there are examples of good practice from which much can be learned, particularly with respect to disability and HIV-prevention efforts. There is limited provision for treatment, care and support for disability in the context of HIV and AIDS.

Conclusions. Many NSPs in ESA are due for review, providing ample opportunities for the development of disability-inclusive responses. Future NSPs need to integrate the needs of people with disabilities within structures, programmes and monitoring and evaluation, and make provision for increased rehabilitation needs caused by HIV. A rights-based approach and specific financial allocation of resources are crucial for this process.

Keywords:

• HIV/AIDS
• disability
• national strategic plans
• programming

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge the valuable contributions provided by the following individuals and organisations in preparing the original report that informed this paper. The AIDS and Rights Alliance of Southern Africa (ARASA) and partner organisations for their assistance in locating national strategic plans in countries of Eastern and Southern Africa, through their wide networks in the various countries, and for access to their existing information and research on HIV, AIDS, law and human rights in these countries. The peer reviewers of the report, namely Tom Shakespere (WHO) and Johanna Kehler (AIDS Legal Network), who willingly gave of their time and expertise to review and comment on the draft findings. We also thank Philliamon Simwaba from the Disability, HIV and AIDS Trust (DHAT), who has provided us with valuable input and who's organisation hopefully profits from the report. The study was funded by the Joint Funding Agreement (JFA) of the Health Economics HIV and AIDS Research Division (HEARD).

Declaration of Interest:

The authors declare that they have no competing interests. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.