DREAM: An Integrated Faith-Based Initiative to Treat HIV/AIDS in Mozambique: Case Study

Abstract

This report describes the Drug Resources Enhancement Against AIDS and Malnutrition (DREAM) project in Mozambique. DREAM was created by the religious community of Sant’ Egidio in Rome. The main objective was to provide diagnosis and comprehensive treatment, prevention of perinatal transmission and of HIV transmission in the population through community care and home care services and mother and child prevention and care. The project uses a holistic approach by treating HIV with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) as well as treating malnutrition, TB, malaria, and STDs. DREAM also emphasizes health education. The report describes the DREAM model, the facilities, staff, and services, adherence support, laboratory, training and human resources, and preliminary outcomes, costs, and lessons learned.