On Tuesday, September 17, 2024, Service Yezu Mwiza (SYM) in Burundi hosted an event marking the launch of the Mothers Nurturing program, a critical initiative aimed at supporting HIV service providers and strengthening the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) services in Bujumbura North District. The event brought together foster mothers from seven different healthcare facilities to explain their pivotal role in offering emotional and practical support to mothers living with HIV, while ensuring confidentiality.

The initiative is one of several activities led by Service Yezu Mwiza (SYM) in the fight against HIV, with the African Jesuit AIDS Network (AJAN) serving as a key partner, providing strategic guidance, resources, and training to ensure the program’s success. The Mothers Nurturing program focuses on equipping participants with values of compassion, community support, and social justice, aiming to empower foster mothers to assume leadership roles within their communities.

During the session, Lambert HAKUZIYAREMYE, Project Manager for Tubakarorero, shared vital information about family planning, emphasizing its importance for the health of both mother and child. He encouraged open dialogue between spouses, parents, and children on sexual and reproductive health, underlining its significance in preventing unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and HIV/AIDS.

HAKUZIYAREMYE also discussed the importance of fighting sexual and gender-based violence, highlighting the need for parents to protect their children from risky sexual behaviors. As the event drew to a close, he encouraged participants to look for opportunities to engage in income-generating activities, emphasizing the importance of savings and working in groups. This, he noted, would not only reduce their vulnerability and stigma but also increase their financial autonomy, empowering them to lead healthier, more secure lives.

The gathering marked a significant step forward in the district’s efforts to improve maternal and child health while addressing broader social issues that impact the community. The collaboration underscores the power of community-based approaches in combating HIV/AIDS and fostering resilience through solidarity and shared action.

By, Communication Team,

Service Yezu Mwiza, Burundi.