Dr. Nicaise Mathe, coordinator of the National HIV/AIDS Control Program (PNLS) in Beni-Butembo and Lubero in North Kivu, says the biggest difficulty HIV orphans face is stigma.
During an interview with Radio Okapi, he spoke regarding the situation of children orphaned by AIDS in the region, on the occasion of the World Day of AIDS Orphans celebrated on May 7.
“The big challenge that HIV orphans face is stigma. Many families stigmatize HIV orphans. Some even go so far as to abandon them. There is also a stigma issue in the community,” informs Doctor Nicaise Mathe.
He informs that in Beni and Butembo, the PNLS supervises 450 children, carriers of HIV/AIDS, who receive antiretrovirals.
According to him, care in relation to health care, informing the child that he is infected with HIV/AIDS, giving him ARVs, education, social reintegration and protection, are the main challenges faced by children orphaned by AIDS.
Dr. Nicaise Mathe interviews Guilaine Kasasya:
