Government recognizes effectiveness of kiunga’s support group model
June 2021
Kiunga continues to grow and achieve exciting new milestones.
Since our last update in April, we have added two new support groups. That means that we are now operating at our initial goal of 20 support groups, and have extended our reach to nearly 400 people each week!
This is making an incredible difference in individual lives and in the community as a whole — and the local government has taken notice.
Kiunga is currently the only organization providing HIV care at the community level in Isiolo County, Kenya. After seeing the impact made in just a few months, a team of hospital and county officials approached Project Officer Mbae Leon near the end of 2020 to learn more about the way we work.
The government has now decided that this Kiunga’s support group model will be a key component in the county’s 5-year strategic plan to combat HIV going forward.
“Kiunga enables people living with HIV to cope with anxiety, isolation, suicidal ideation and HIV-associated stigma, which is a serious problem in Isiolo County. They also offer appropriate referrals to health facilities.
Their model is worth borrowing a leaf from and replicating in the County AIDS Implementation Plan (CAIP) for the next 5 years.”
We are so encouraged that in such a short time, the local government has not only recognized the importance of Kiunga’s work in the community, but is recommending that future providers replicate our model.
This impact and influence has only been possible because of your generosity. Still, there is much work left to do.
Would you consider making a gift to ensure that we can continue to grow and strengthen these support groups?
We would be so grateful.
Erin Todd
President, Kiunga, Inc.
Mugo ndung’u’s statement
Isiolo’s senior medical social worker explains why the government has decided to include Kiunga’s model in their strategic plan.
saving + Lending activities
Introducing the concept of saving and lending empowers support group members to meet essential financial needs and transform their lives .
mwenda-antu group
By pooling their resources, the women of Mwenda-Antu support group have become known as agents of change in their community.