Impact - (RED) https://www.red.org/reditorial/category/impact/ Mon, 28 Jul 2025 16:05:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 IAS 2025: Protecting Progress in the AIDS Fight and Charting a Path Forward https://www.red.org/reditorial/impact/ias-2025-protecting-progress-in-the-aids-fight-and-charting-a-path-forward/ Mon, 28 Jul 2025 16:05:13 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=8512 This is a guest (RED)ITORIAL written by Cynthia Kasonde, Medical Laboratory Scientist at Churches Health Association of Zambia and an ambassador of the (RED) and Roche partnership. The International AIDS Society 2025 Conference on HIV Science, held in Kigali, Rwanda, brought together global experts, researchers, policymakers, and frontline professionals to... Read more »

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This is a guest (RED)ITORIAL written by Cynthia Kasonde, Medical Laboratory Scientist at Churches Health Association of Zambia and an ambassador of the (RED) and Roche partnership.

The International AIDS Society 2025 Conference on HIV Science, held in Kigali, Rwanda, brought together global experts, researchers, policymakers, and frontline professionals to reimagine the next chapter in the fight against HIV and AIDS. The event was a powerful reminder that ending AIDS as a public health threat requires country-led strategies, strong, integrated health systems, and African-led solutions to shield HIV programs from future political shocks. With the theme “Moving HIV Science into Policy and Practice,” IAS 2025 emphasized urgency, resilience, and the need to translate cutting-edge research into real-world solutions.

I attended IAS 2025 representing the (RED) and Roche partnership, advocating for increased access to diagnostics and stronger lab systems in fighting pandemics and building equitable healthcare. As a lab professional, I shared how diagnostics—though often behind the scenes—are central to care, forming the foundation of treatment, policy, and prevention.

At the Roche x (RED) booth, I delivered a talk titled “How Local Labs Have a Global Impact,” where I shared insights from my work inside a diagnostic laboratory in Lusaka, Zambia. I outlined the critical process from sample collection to test result, emphasizing three key phases: pre-analytical, involving proper collection, storage, and labeling; analytical, which includes accurate testing using technologies like PCR and serology, requiring trained staff, calibrated equipment, and validated methods; and post-analytical, focused on the secure and timely interpretation and reporting of results.

Each step is governed by rigorous quality assurance, because even one mistake can change a life.

Despite diagnostics informing 70% of medical decisions, they receive under 5% of global health funding. Nearly half the global population lacks access to basic testing. This isn’t just a health crisis, it’s an economic one. In 2000, fewer than 800,000 people were on antiretroviral therapy; today, it’s over 30 million, largely due to expanded testing. Yet, many still face delays or missed diagnoses, leading to higher costs, more transmission, and poorer outcomes. Investing in diagnostics is not only ethical, it’s strategic.

In many sub-Saharan labs, a single machine may test for HIV, TB, hepatitis B and C, and HPV. These integrated platforms are lifesaving, especially amid funding cuts. A mother can be tested for HIV and screened for cervical cancer in one visit. This efficiency isn’t just practical, it’s transformative.

IAS 2025 spotlighted urgent shifts in the global HIV response. U.S. funding cuts have reversed gains, reducing ARV access in regions like Mozambique and Latin America. African scientific leadership shone through, with initiatives like the Africa Cure Consortium and outbreak responses such as Rwanda’s Marburg containment. Innovations like Lenacapavir, a long-acting PrEP injection now WHO-recommended, signaled a major shift. Zambia’s adoption of CAB-LA and oral PrEP options showed promise, especially for adolescents, a group facing high rates of suicidal ideation. Advances in bNAbs and CAR-T therapy also opened new frontiers.

Diagnostics underpin these advances. In the face of funding shortfalls, timely and affordable testing ensures smart use of limited ART. For innovations like Lenacapavir, diagnostics track adherence and resistance. In adolescent care, they support tailored mental health interventions. And in cure research, they measure viral load and immune response. Diagnostics are the silent enablers; without them, prevention and treatment efforts stall.

Speakers at IAS stressed that tools alone aren’t enough, it’s how we use them and who we empower that matters. More meaningful public-private partnerships are needed. Countries don’t just need donors, they need committed partners. The Roche x (RED) collaboration is one such model. It’s not just about providing machines but also training people, embedding sustainable systems, and building lasting infrastructure. As I said during my talk, “The Roche x (RED) partnership isn’t about charity, it’s about building resilient systems that last.”

Another key message was the call for true country ownership. Governments must design health reforms rooted in local realities, not donor preferences. At CHAZ, we live this every day. Our work is embedded in Zambia’s national lab network, building systems that are both technically sound and community-owned.

A deeply personal takeaway from IAS 2025 was the growing recognition of lab professionals. Too often overlooked, our work powers the data behind decisions, alerts, treatments, and policies. A missed HIV diagnosis isn’t just one error; it delays care, spreads disease, and distorts data. Labs remain underfunded, but our role is finally being acknowledged. As I said in Kigali, “When I speak on behalf of (RED) and Roche, I’m amplifying the voices of lab professionals across Africa, people whose work is vital but too often invisible.”

Looking ahead, the future of diagnostics is bright. New research in treatments, vaccines, and testing is promising, but innovation is meaningless if it’s not accessible. Equity must guide every step. Representing (RED), Roche, and countless African lab professionals at IAS 2025 was an honor. We may not always be seen, but our impact is felt worldwide. “We may work in the background, but our work speaks volumes, and with partners like (RED) and Roche, the world is finally listening.”

The end of AIDS won’t come from breakthroughs alone. It will come from everyday acts of clarity: one test, one diagnosis, one life at a time.

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]]> USAID vs. UNAIDS – What’s the Difference? https://www.red.org/reditorial/learn/usaid-vs-unaids-whats-the-difference/ Wed, 14 May 2025 18:18:22 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=8038 Recent policy decisions around foreign aid have not only had an immediate impact on humanitarian initiatives but also brought increased attention to some potentially confusing acronyms. For example, USAID and UNAIDS look and sound similar, but they’re very different organizations. Do you know the difference? We’re here to help break... Read more »

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]]> Recent policy decisions around foreign aid have not only had an immediate impact on humanitarian initiatives but also brought increased attention to some potentially confusing acronyms. For example, USAID and UNAIDS look and sound similar, but they’re very different organizations. Do you know the difference? We’re here to help break it down!

UNAIDS is a United Nations (that’s what the “U and “N” stand for!) program tasked with coordinating the global response to HIV/AIDS. Founded in 1996 in Geneva, Switzerland, UNAIDS involves multiple UN agencies (like WHO, UNICEF, UNDP) with the goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. The organization plays a key role in global advocacy, policy guidance, and data collection/reporting, which helps response programs track the state of the fight and strategically deploy resources and funding where they’re needed most. 

USAID stands for United States Agency for International Development. Founded in 1961 by President John F Kennedy in Washington, D.C., USAID has broad goals to promote health, education, economic development, democracy, and humanitarian aid on a global scale. USAID funds and manages aid programs in over 100 countries, tackling global health crises including infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. 

UNAIDS receives nearly half of its funding from USAID and the two organizations collaborate on several initiatives. The key difference is that UNAIDS is a United Nations-led, HIV/AIDS-specific, global coordination focused on policy, advocacy, data collection, and strategic deployment of resources while USAID is a United States development agency, with HIV/AIDS being just one part of its mission. 

UNAIDS has been in the news lately because the organization has been subject to an upheaval by the Trump administration. In January 2025, the administration announced the abrupt termination of approximately 92% of USAID’s foreign aid contracts, amounting to nearly $60 billion in withheld funds, many of which were bound for UNAIDS programs. This illegal action affected nearly 10,000 contracts and grants from the State Department and USAID. And while some exceptions and waivers have been granted to restore funding for specific programs or uses, the damage from this sharp withdrawal from global support ​has forced many operations to cease irreversibly. This threatens to undo decades of progress that have been made in the HIV/AIDS fight. We cannot let this happen. 

Follow @RED to stay up to date on the AIDS fight and visit ONE.org to learn how you can use your voice to speak out against the US’s recent foreign aid decisions.

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]]> A Closer Look at the Historic (RED), Snapdragon, and Manchester United Initiative https://www.red.org/reditorial/partnership/a-closer-look-at-the-historic-red-snapdragon-and-manchester-united-initiative/ Tue, 29 Apr 2025 20:00:23 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=7950 In a groundbreaking collaboration, (RED), Snapdragon, and Manchester United are coming together to drive awareness and funding for the global fight against health injustice. The (RED) logo will appear on the front of Manchester United’s iconic red shirt at two 2025 fixtures: Manchester United vs Arsenal women’s team match on... Read more »

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]]> In a groundbreaking collaboration, (RED), Snapdragon, and Manchester United are coming together to drive awareness and funding for the global fight against health injustice. The (RED) logo will appear on the front of Manchester United’s iconic red shirt at two 2025 fixtures: Manchester United vs Arsenal women’s team match on May 10th and Manchester United vs West Ham men’s team match on May 11th. This is a historic moment and an opportunity to invite more people than ever to Choose (RED).

This initiative is made possible thanks to the Snapdragon front-of-shirt sponsorship of Manchester United. While this is the first time that Snapdragon has teamed up with (RED), Snapdragon is not new to the global fight against health injustice. For over two decades, Qualcomm  has worked to bring connectivity and technology to underserved communities around the world, including countries like Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania.

Qualcomm’s programs help strengthen several on the ground health efforts including capacity building for healthcare workers, improving vaccine delivery to ensure efficacy, providing mobile ultrasounds for maternal health and supporting informative and educational HIV programs.

The Qualcomm-supported program KidzAlive Mobilized, implemented by Zoë-Life Innovative Solutions seeks to deliver HIV education and adherence support to children and caregivers through gamified digital tools and apps. Since its inception in 2017, KidzAlive Mobilized has reached 30,000+ children and helped train over 700 healthcare workers in South Africa, winning the 2024 GLOMO Award for ‘Tech4Good Best Mobile Innovation for Enhancing the Lives of Children and Young People.’

We’re honored to continue the legacy of strengthening health systems in the most vulnerable parts of the world. Thank you, Snapdragon, for turning your iconic collaboration with the world’s most famous football club into a force that saves lives with (RED)! We can’t wait to see the (RED) shirt on the pitch during the Manchester United women’s team and Manchester United men’s team matches on May 10th and 11th. Learn more about our exciting collaboration: https://red.org/snapdragon

Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.

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]]> Why Should the U.S. Support Foreign Aid Programs? https://www.red.org/reditorial/news/why-should-the-u-s-support-foreign-aid-programs/ Mon, 10 Mar 2025 20:02:41 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=7772 Recent executive orders from the United States administration have raised questions and alarm over global health and the HIV/AIDS fight. With policy rhetoric shifting to an “America First” mentality, many are also curious why the U.S. should support other countries, financially or otherwise. Here is why it’s critically important for... Read more »

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]]> Recent executive orders from the United States administration have raised questions and alarm over global health and the HIV/AIDS fight. With policy rhetoric shifting to an “America First” mentality, many are also curious why the U.S. should support other countries, financially or otherwise. Here is why it’s critically important for the U.S. to continue to support foreign aid programs.

1. Global Health & Pandemic Prevention

Diseases do not respect geopolitical borders. Investing in global health initiatives helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases like Ebola, HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and COVID-19. Treatment and prevention through health programs not only save lives abroad, but also protect Americans by reducing the likelihood of disease outbreaks reaching U.S. borders.

2. Humanitarian & Moral Responsibility

Providing humanitarian aid to others is in the DNA of American history. The U.S. has long positioned itself as a leader in defending human rights and democracy. Providing aid during global crises reflects American values of compassion and responsibility, and creates a favorable image of the U.S. to the rest of the world.

3. National Security

Helping to stabilize regions by addressing poverty, disease, and lack of education can mitigate conditions that lead to extremism, conflict, and mass migration. By investing in development, the U.S. helps create stable governments that are less likely to become threats to themselves and other countries.

4. Economic Benefits

When developing countries grow economically, they become better trade partners for the U.S. Foreign aid programs can jump-start local economies, creating markets for American goods and services and, in turn, providing lasting returns on investment.

5. Creating & Strengthening Diplomatic Allyship

Partnerships with countries that receive U.S. aid are not one-sided. Aid fosters goodwill and stronger diplomatic ties with recipient countries, making them more likely to support U.S. policies on international issues. The strategic partnerships that emerge from aid can enhance the U.S.’s position on global policies.

6. Cost-Effectiveness Compared to Military Action

If the intent of scaling back aid is to save money, that may only yield a short-term result. In the same way that disease prevention is much more effective and economical than responsive treatment, history shows that investing in development aid is often far cheaper than military intervention. In the long run, addressing instability at its root—by improving governance, infrastructure, and economic opportunities—reduces the need for costly military involvement in the future.

7. Climate Change & Environmental Protection

Climate change already has a dire impact on countries all over the planet, and climate-related crises are forecast to continue worsening. The deadly and costly effects of climate change can only be combatted through a coordinated global effort. By supporting sustainable development abroad, the U.S. also addresses crises locally, such as rising sea levels, destructive storms and fires, and increased migration pressures.

While some critics argue that resources for foreign aid should be spent domestically, the reality is that the budget set aside for aid programs makes up a small fraction of total U.S. spending (less than 1% of the federal budget). Despite its relatively low cost, the impact from these initiatives can be significant in bolstering humanitarian progress, stabilizing regions of unrest, providing economic growth, and preventing climate and health crises—all of which ultimately benefit the U.S.

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]]> How Is Female Genital Mulatilation Linked to HIV? https://www.red.org/reditorial/aids-information/how-is-female-genital-mulatilation-linked-to-hiv/ Thu, 06 Feb 2025 15:14:39 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=7539 Every year, millions of women and girls undergo some form of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), leaving them with lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars. FGM involves the cutting or altering of female genitalia for non-medical reasons, offering no health benefits. It’s still practiced in over 30 countries, with over 144... Read more »

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]]> Every year, millions of women and girls undergo some form of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), leaving them with lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars. FGM involves the cutting or altering of female genitalia for non-medical reasons, offering no health benefits. It’s still practiced in over 30 countries, with over 144 million accounts in Africa to date. Over 230 million women and girls alive today have been subjected to FGM, and an estimated 4.4 million girls are at risk this year alone.

February 6th is International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation and this year, we’ve partnered with the Ifrah Foundation to raise awareness about the intersection between HIV and FGM. While (RED) generates funds and urgency for the fight against HIV/AIDS, which disproportionately affects women and girls, the Ifrah Foundation focuses on eradicating FGM in Somalia through advocacy, awareness, and community empowerment. Together, we’re committed to improving women’s and girls’ health and eliminating harmful and unnecessary practices. 

Photo Credit: The Global Fund
Four Ways FGM and HIV are Linked:  

1. Unsafe Procedures: FGM is often performed in unsafe conditions, where unsterilized surgical instruments are shared among girls. This increases the risk of HIV transmission through possible blood exposure between those undergoing FGM procedure

Source: WHO

2. Long-Term Health Complications: FGM can lead to lifelong health issues such as severe bleeding, tearing during childbirth or intercourse, and complications from blood transfusions – all of which increase susceptibility to HIV. 

Source: UNFPA, WHO

3. Gender Inequality: FGM is rooted in patriarchal norms, often accompanied by child marriage and a lack of access to sexual health education, which collectively increase women’s risk of contracting HIV. Survivors of FGM may avoid seeking medical care due to stigma, further exacerbating the risk of untreated infections, including HIV. 

Source: UNFPA, Columbia Journal

4. Prevalence in Communities with Limited Resources: Both FGM and HIV are more prevalent in low-income communities with limited healthcare, education, and preventive resources. In many of these communities, FGM is often used to control female sexuality, and protective measures against HIV are discouraged. 

Source: UNFPA, National Institute of Medicine Study

Addressing FGM and HIV requires a multifaceted approach, as both are deeply embedded in cultural and social constructs. These are not just healthcare challenges, but fundamental human rights issues that require education and advocacy to drive prevention. (RED) and the Ifrah Foundation remain committed to raising awareness for HIV and FGM and empowering women and girls worldwide.

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]]> Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: 3 Essential Lessons I’ve Learned as a Woman Working in Global Health https://www.red.org/reditorial/partnership/standing-on-the-shoulders-of-giants-3-essential-lessons-ive-learned-as-a-woman-working-in-global-health/ Fri, 11 Oct 2024 19:42:47 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=6681 This is a guest (RED)ITORIAL written by Pelly Malebe, PhD, Product Manager: Specialized Molecular, Roche Diagnostics. As a (RED) Champion, Pelly helps spread the word about (RED) and Roche’s shared mission to raise awareness around the importance of testing and diagnostics, strengthening healthcare systems, and empowering women and girls to... Read more »

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]]> A portrait of Pelly Malebe on a red background. She is smiling, and wearing a red Roche shirt.

This is a guest (RED)ITORIAL written by Pelly Malebe, PhD, Product Manager: Specialized Molecular, Roche Diagnostics. As a (RED) Champion, Pelly helps spread the word about (RED) and Roche’s shared mission to raise awareness around the importance of testing and diagnostics, strengthening healthcare systems, and empowering women and girls to pursue careers in STEM.

In my journey in the public health sector, I’ve learned invaluable lessons, shaped not only by my work but also by the powerful legacy of those who came before me. As a woman in science, and particularly as a Black woman, my experiences are unique yet representative of many who have walked similar paths. These are the three key lessons I hold close:

1. Harnessing Strength and Paving the Way

My genetic make-up consists of two X chromosomes and melanin, a combination that represents both strength and complexity. When people see me, they do not simply see a woman; they see a Black woman. This identity comes with its own challenges and prejudices, but I wear it as a badge of honor. Throughout my studies and career, I’ve had to consistently bring my A-game, just to be acknowledged as competent. But through this perseverance, I’ve carved my place in the field of Biotechnology, Genetics and Healthcare, three disciplines I am deeply passionate about. My advice to people that identify as women: stand tall in your identity. It is not a burden but a crown. Rock it!

2. A Seat at the Table, the Power of the Female Perspective

Public health, like many fields, must be inclusive at every level. As a (RED) x Roche Africa Champion, I have been privileged to advocate for access to diagnostics, treatment, and monitoring with the goal of achieving an AIDS-free generation. I’ve learned that any effort to eradicate pandemics or treatable diseases must start with diagnostics. In my current role, I remain passionate about strengthening diagnostic systems, particularly in Women’s Health and Infectious Diseases in Africa. The female voice is essential to this mission. We bring perspectives that shape policy and decision-making in ways that benefit not only women but entire communities.

3. From Classroom to Community, Women Redefining STEM

Women are the foundation of our communities, and our contributions to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are indispensable. Our paths should not be dictated by societal norms, but rather, we should be at the forefront, building roadmaps for future generations. Dr. James Emmanuel Kwegyir-Aggrey, a renowned Ghanaian intellectual, famously said, “If you educate a woman, you educate a nation.” I deeply believe in the power of education to break generational, geographical and cultural barriers. I encourage young women to see STEM as a powerful tool for change, one that they can use to reshape their communities and the world. There should be no limit to your ambitions.

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]]> How Roche and (RED) are Working Together to Expand Access to Testing https://www.red.org/reditorial/partnership/how-roche-and-red-are-working-together-to-expand-access-to-testing/ Thu, 22 Aug 2024 17:30:25 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=6458 Since 2020, Roche and (RED) have worked together to raise awareness about the importance of diagnostics and testing in the global fight against preventable and treatable disease.  Preventable disease continues to heavily burden health systems, communities, and economies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. While decades of investment have enabled... Read more »

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]]> Since 2020, Roche and (RED) have worked together to raise awareness about the importance of diagnostics and testing in the global fight against preventable and treatable disease. 

Preventable disease continues to heavily burden health systems, communities, and economies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. While decades of investment have enabled these countries to build stronger healthcare systems, including better laboratories and trained healthcare professionals, more attention is needed to close the gaps in access to diagnostics and care.

Each diagnostic test reflects years of investment in research, policy, advocacy, infrastructure, and capacity building, therefore healthcare financing remains a top priority to achieve universal health coverage. Through engaging content and interactive experiences, the (RED) and Roche partnership continues to emphasize the need for ongoing investment in diagnostics, which is vital to ensuring that everybody has access to care, regardless of location.

When someone gains access to testing, they not only know their status but can also access the right treatment to thrive and help prevent the further spread of disease. We’re so grateful to Roche for their continued support and for helping (RED) show the world how access to reliable testing can strengthen communities and help combat preventable and treatable disease.

If you can’t test, you can’t treat and you can’t save lives.

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]]> Recognizing Transgender Leaders in Colombia for their Work in the AIDS Fight https://www.red.org/reditorial/impact/recognizing-transgender-leaders-in-colombia-for-their-work-in-the-aids-fight-lgbtqia/ Wed, 24 Jan 2024 22:38:57 +0000 https://live-red005.pantheonsite.io/?p=3651 Though we’ve made tremendous progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, progress in Latin America is lagging tremendously. The region faces a range of issues, including limited access to healthcare in remote areas, stigma,  and discrimination that discourages testing and treatment, and rising numbers of new infections among... Read more »

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A group of ENTerritorio health workers in Cartagena, Colombia | Photographer: Federico Rios

Though we’ve made tremendous progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, progress in Latin America is lagging tremendously. The region faces a range of issues, including limited access to healthcare in remote areas, stigma,  and discrimination that discourages testing and treatment, and rising numbers of new infections among marginalized populations.

The AIDS crisis disproportionately affects members of the LGBTQIA+ community; transgender people are 14 times more likely to contract HIV. Widespread stigma and discrimination contribute to social exclusion, creating barriers to preventive care and testing, sexual health education, and life-saving treatment for those living with HIV. LGBTQIA+ communities often face higher rates of poverty and homelessness, which can also exacerbate the risk of exposure to HIV/AIDS. 

During an impact trip to Colombia in May 2023, the (RED) team had the privilege of meeting Learsy Batista, a Trans Peer Educator at ENTerritorio who has devoted her life to increasing awareness of HIV and expanding access to testing and treatment.

Portrait of Learsy Batista | Photographer: Federico Rios

As a transgender woman, Learsy Batista knows firsthand the barriers LGBTQ+ people face when accessing life-saving health care and services. After learning she was HIV positive, Learsy turned to ENTerritorio, a (RED)-supported comprehensive health center in Cartagena, Colombia, for psychosocial support and medical care. Learsy described seeking help as a “long, hard process” but said her peers at ENTerritorio helped her find the strength to move forward.

After receiving the care she needed, Learsy channeled her energy toward helping others by stepping up as a Peer Educator. In her new role, Learsy helps detect positive cases of HIV and TB in her community and works to provide compassion, resources, and care to people seeking help at ENTerritorio. “Here, you have a hand to help you get back up. You’re not alone. You have a community, you have a friend, you have a sister,” Learsy explained.

Learsy said she enjoys being a peer educator because it has allowed her to develop new skills in entrepreneurship and has sparked a new passion for making her own clothes and textiles. She also emphasized the value of helping the community around her: “I like bringing the knowledge that I’ve learned in my day-to-day life to my community. I like knowing that people don’t feel alone, the same way I had support.”

 LGBTQ+ Peer Educators at La Corporación Stonewall Antioquia, Colombia | Photographer: Federico Rios

Despite the obstacles she faces, Learsy has dedicated herself to changing the narrative around the LGBTQ+ community. Through her work at ENTerritorio, she’s making positive change possible. 

“This support gives you the strength to move forward,” she said.

Learsy is a powerful reminder that community-led efforts are making a meaningful and positive impact in the fight against HIV/AIDS. We’re grateful for leaders like Learsy for the work they do to support their community members. To end the AIDS epidemic by 2030, we must allocate resources and support not only to sub-Saharan Africa but also to Latin America. Continued funding and comprehensive community-led strategies are vital to ensuring that the region can achieve its goals of reducing new infections, improving access to treatment, and ultimately ending the HIV/AIDS crisis within its borders.

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]]> Why a Community-Led Response is Crucial to Ending AIDS https://www.red.org/reditorial/impact/community-led-response-crucial-ending-aids/ Mon, 10 Jul 2023 16:29:55 +0000 https://red.org/?p=1594 Regardless of what we read, watch, and listen to, none of us will ever understand the ins and outs of a community quite like those who are actually part of it. This is why The Global Fund and (RED) believe in the importance of community-led responses in the fight against... Read more »

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]]> Regardless of what we read, watch, and listen to, none of us will ever understand the ins and outs of a community quite like those who are actually part of it. This is why The Global Fund and (RED) believe in the importance of community-led responses in the fight against global health crises like AIDS.

A “community-led response,” means that all actions and strategies aimed at improving the health and human rights of a community are specifically informed and implemented by and for communities themselves. 

In order to end AIDS by 2030, we need to empower communities living with and most affected by HIV to lead the charge. Health programs can only stay innovative, effective, and sustainable if those affected play a role in all planning and decision-making. 

In (RED)-supported country Tanzania, the Maasai Mto-wa-Mbu Community Clinic relies on community members to help expand the reach of the health services they provide. In this rural setting, community health workers are often tasked with going “boma to boma” or house to house, promoting usage of the local clinic or providing critical in-home health assessments, including urging pregnant women to visit the health facility for prenatal care and delivery instead of having home births—which are statistically more risky and can increase pregnancy complications. 

Mama Esther has served as a health worker in the Maasai community for over 15 years, building trust with local families and establishing herself as a life-saving resource for vital health information and care. On one of her community visits a few years ago, she encountered a very sick young woman named Neema, whom she also learned was pregnant. Though Neema was initially hesitant to get tested for HIV due to high rates of stigma, Esther encouraged her to go to the clinic. There, she was tested and learned she was HIV-positive. Thanks to Mama Esther and the support of her family, Neema began taking life-saving ARVs, which suppressed the virus and kept her healthy for the remainder of her pregnancy, and ensured her baby was born HIV-free.  

When you support (RED), you empower front-line health workers like Mama Esther to serve entire communities with localized, life-saving care.

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]]> Laura Brown Sees (RED) in South Africa https://www.red.org/reditorial/impact/laura-brown-visits-south-africa/ Mon, 22 May 2023 17:08:59 +0000 https://red.org/?p=1616 Last month, Laura Brown—former editor-in-chief of InStyle magazine and Chair of the new (RED) Creative Council—traveled to South Africa to see (RED)’s impact on the ground. Feeling inspired by her trip, Brown decided to do what she does best and write about her eye-opening experience. “In the United States, we... Read more »

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]]> Last month, Laura Brown—former editor-in-chief of InStyle magazine and Chair of the new (RED) Creative Council—traveled to South Africa to see (RED)’s impact on the ground. Feeling inspired by her trip, Brown decided to do what she does best and write about her eye-opening experience.

“In the United States, we are fortunate to largely view HIV in the rear mirror. But while it has receded in our memories, in Africa, it is far from over. South Africa particularly carries the largest burden of HIV in the world: it accounts for almost 20% of the global population who are living with the virus, and 14% of infections. It’s also the leading cause of death, over heart disease, stroke, violence…name anything else. It’s stunning how common HIV is in the vernacular here – people talk about it as regularly as we in the US talked about Covid… during Covid. Which is why the Global Fund and the South African government have committed nearly $2 billion to the HIV fight, of which $94 million has come from (RED).”

Throughout Brown’s time on the trip, she was struck by the injustices that allow AIDS to thrive. She was particularly moved by a meeting with sex workers who shared their stories with her and the (RED) team. Brown writes, “we sat with around 20 sex workers at a CPC (Center for Positive Care) safe space and asked them about their challenges. An older woman, Samantha, shot her hand up: ‘The police. Even in the daytime, if I am not doing business, they will arrest me. Maybe they keep us for five days. And they’re beating us. I say, “Why are you arresting us? I am not a criminal.” They say, “You are a bitch, you are a sex worker.” Then they take you to a cell. I have been raped two times by officers without a condom. We are not free.’ She added they are routinely, “tear gassed, and pepper sprayed.’”

Brown also described her experience visiting a health center in Pretoria: “There must have been 100 mothers and babies waiting for a checkup, sitting patiently for hours. Each woman held her baby in one arm and health records in another – because there is nothing resembling digitization. The team showed us a presentation of their staff and resources: for a clinic servicing a region of 95,000 people, they had one doctor. One. But seven security guards.”

Brown visited the Gauteng branch of Childline, an organization that provides youths in the community with a variety of useful services and education. She writes about the silver lining end to her journey: “Their ‘My Journey’ program, supported by the Global Fund, works to keep kids in school and find them jobs while reducing HIV transmission and gender violence. And the place looks fun, like a real community. There are a bunch of young men (clinical finding: skinny jeans are universal) receiving sex and gender education but also free haircuts and help setting up bank accounts. There’s a group of women meditating, while others make intricate beaded bracelets. There’s a lot of cackling and mischief and kids coming over after school.” 

Laura’s full South Africa trip recaps are available to read on her Substack:

Read About Laura’s Trip to Johannesburg Read About Laura’s Trip to Cape Town

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]]> Connie’s Lessons As a Mother https://www.red.org/reditorial/impact/connie-mudenda-lessons-from-mother-to-daughter-arv-medication-prevention-of-mother-to-child-transmission/ Tue, 04 May 2021 19:21:42 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=4708 This guest (RED)ITORIAL post was written by (RED) Ambassador Connie Mudenda. Learn more about Connie’s story here. With Mother’s Day right around the corner… I’ve been thinking a lot about my own experience as a mother. After losing three children to HIV as infants, I never thought Mother’s Day would... Read more »

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]]> This guest (RED)ITORIAL post was written by (RED) Ambassador Connie Mudenda. Learn more about Connie’s story here.

With Mother’s Day right around the corner…

I’ve been thinking a lot about my own experience as a mother. After losing three children to HIV as infants, I never thought Mother’s Day would be a day I would celebrate. However, I finally got to experience motherhood after I had my fourth child, Lubona, who proved early on that she had come to stay.

Over the last 8 and a half years, I’ve realized that motherhood is a learning process. I never had the chance to learn from my first three children, but I’m now learning so many important life lessons with my fourth child. I’d like to share some of the most important lessons I’ve learned as a mother.

  1. Take Things One Day at a Time

When I had my fourth child, Lubona, I was so scared to get emotionally attached to her. I had lost three children before, and the kind of pain I experienced is something you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy. I got through this pain by giving myself plenty of time to heal and learning to take things one day at a time.

  1. Speak Less and Listen More

Being a mother has taught me to listen, even to the unspoken word. I believe most mothers have this ability to speak less, listen more, and look out for our children’s gestures or hesitations in a conversation. Sensing our children’s desperation enables us to intervene and be there for them.

  1. Forge Ahead

No matter how broken or tired I am, I find the strength to continue to push forward for the sake of my daughter. I brought Lubona into this world, so I am her protector. I am the first person she goes to whenever she needs help, so I have to be available at all times. If she is in any sort of trouble, I drop everything to be there to protect or comfort her.I would go to unimaginable heights for her.

  1. Enjoy Every Moment

I am HIV positive and am so grateful that my medication allows me to live each day of my life to the fullest. We never know what tomorrow will bring, so we have to celebrate each and every day. I have learned to cherish every moment with my baby.

Happy Mother’s Day!

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]]> (RED) Dollars are Hard at Work in The Fight Against COVID-19 https://www.red.org/reditorial/impact/red-funding-at-work-fighting-covid-19/ Sun, 01 Nov 2020 17:24:47 +0000 https://www.red.org/?p=5627 In April 2020, the Global Fund—the recipient of 100% of (RED) partner money—created the COVID-19 Response Mechanism to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on its life-saving HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria programs worldwide. Since then, the Global Fund has deployed over $1 billion to help strengthen health systems, protect health workers,... Read more »

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A program worker takes down information at IHATA Shelter in Cape Town, South Africa

In April 2020, the Global Fund—the recipient of 100% of (RED) partner money—created the COVID-19 Response Mechanism to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on its life-saving HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria programs worldwide. Since then, the Global Fund has deployed over $1 billion to help strengthen health systems, protect health workers, and ensure that the most vulnerable communities continue to access life-saving health services and treatment.

Over 100 countries, including 8 (RED)-supported countries, have opted to use this COVID-19 Response funding to ensure they can continue to deliver critical health services and treatment on the ground in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Here are just a few examples of the ways (RED) funding is being put to work to protect HIV/AIDS programs amid COVID-19:

  • Ghana: Securing PPE for frontline health workers and procuring other emergency health and medical equipment at healthcare clinics
  • South Africa: Strengthening community-based screening, testing, and contact tracing, and scaling up supply chains to deliver COVID-19 and HIV treatment
  • Zambia: Purchasing motorbikes to deliver HIV treatment to local communities that are avoiding in-person health services due to COVID-19

(RED) countries have been able to implement swift and effective responses to battle COVID-19, but we must keep up the heat and funding so that this pandemic doesn’t reverse the decades of progress that have been made in the AIDS fight. Still, this year, the Global Fund needs to mobilize an additional $6 billion from public and private sector donors, including (RED) and our partners, to effectively combat the impact of the outbreak on their life-saving programs.

$6 billion is an ambitious goal, so in order to reach it, we must all step up and take action. Join (RED) and our amazing partners in supporting the fight against HIV and COVID-19. When you shop (RED) on Amazon, your purchase generates funds to help strengthen healthcare systems and combat these pandemics.

Shop (RED) On Amazon

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