HIV has profoundly impacted many aspects of our military culture. In the past, soldiers often had a different mindset, including behaviors like shari… - Evarlyne Buregyeya Asiimwe

Setting higher targets motivates us to work harder to achieve them. I remember when the government first focused heavily on eMTCT, we were still far behind. But we always strive to do our best.

Some of the challenges we face involve "pulling ropes," especially when it comes to context. In today’s world, global factors affect nearly everything. Implementing programs in a unique environment can be difficult because it’s challenging for partners or donors to fully understand and perceive the situation as you do. For example, with HIV mobile testing, some may find it difficult to accept the idea of bringing services directly to people, which can seem unusual. Global programs often come with challenges in creating interventions that truly address the specific needs and realities on the ground.

The DSDM model involves reaching out to communities directly, where we maintain contact with our clients. We find it more convenient to deliver medication to our clients rather than asking them to travel to health facilities, as many lack transportation or are too ill to make the journey. We identify key points where a large number of clients gather, and that’s where we deliver the medications. This model proved particularly effective during the COVID-19 outbreak. While it existed before COVID, the restrictions during the pandemic helped us organize and streamline the process. It was originally implemented by health workers in remote areas where our soldiers are stationed, and we would gather medical records for certain groups, refill prescriptions, and deliver the medication to those locations. The pandemic only amplified the scope of this initiative, and it continues to function effectively today. We’ve since expanded the model. Now, a multidisciplinary team goes to specific locations to offer a variety of services, rather than just delivering medications. In addition to dispensing drugs, the team conducts disease monitoring, TB contact tracing, and even viral load testing. Essentially, we’re bringing the entire healthcare facility to the community. People now know that on specific days, they can access healthcare services right in their own neighborhood, instead of having to travel long distances to find a clinic. As long as a battalion is stationed in a particular area, we will continue to offer services to both the soldiers and the surrounding communities.