I've mentioned BOCAIP a few times, and even shown you the outside of the office building. I thought it was finally time to introduce you to some of my co-workers and explain a bit more about what they do. BOCAIP is the Botswana Christian AIDS Intervention Program, a faith-based organization, established in 1997, that operates programs in 11 centres throughout the country. One of its main programs is HIV counseling and testing. (*see comments for more info about HIV testing.)
On March 24, I sat in on an orientation session for staff from three of BOCAIP's centres who will be providing Provider Initiated Counseling and Testing (PICT). The two lovely ladies on the right work at the national office. Mme Kwepe is the National Coordinator -- a very experienced, dedicated, and inspiring woman. Bonolo, next to her, in the green top, is a Project Officer. The others are supervisors and counselors from some of the centres in outlying communities.
Here is Bonolo, explaining BOCAIP's counseling and testing model.
Bonolo's advice for working through challenges: "Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns. I am thankful that thorns have roses."
Click on the picture to enlarge it. Let me know if you have any questions about the model.
National guidelines for counseling and testing children and adolescents, and encouraging couples to test together.
* About 56% of the population in Botswana has taken the test for HIV. That means that 44% do not know their status. BOCAIP counselors are trained to discuss the importance of testing, adhering to treatment, and taking preventative measures.
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