HIV Program in Papua New Guinea

Packing condoms as part of AIDS/HIV prevention. © Steve Daughtry/ABM 2007

Papua New Guinea is facing a serious HIV epidemic. The UN estimates there are 54,000 people living with HIV and has forecast that by 2012, 5.07 percent or 208,714 people will be infected with HIV - almost four times the number today.

The spread of the virus has many social, cultural, and economic causes. High rates of sexually transmitted infections (STI) result from significant changes in sexual behaviour caused by urbanization, greater population mobility, and high unemployment. Risky sexual behaviours are on the rise, especially amongst adolescents. Sex in exchange for cash or goods is commonplace in a large percentage of the population. High levels of domestic violence and rape exist.

In a country where 85 percent of the population still live in rural areas and poverty is pervasive. The Anglican Church of Papua New Guinea (ACPNG) has been working in these communities to tackle the problem of HIV. This project aims to increase access to STI clinics, to supply laboratory equipment and stock. Promotional materials and community workshops, as well as schools and colleges, will raise awareness of HIV and also address the social stigma that is associated with the disease.

Staff training programs mean clinics are staffed with people who are competent, knowledgeable and well trained in the diagnosis and treatment of STIs.

Donations to this program are tax deductible.

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HOW CAN I DONATE?

You can make an online donation to this project by selecting HIV/AIDS Program in PNG from the full project list.

Alternatively, for donations by cheque/money order (made out to the Anglican Board of Mission - Australia), telephone or email, view contact details here.

(Project information will be available soon.)

"The Anglican Board of Mission works with Anglicare StopAIDS in PNG and have been a strong supporter of HIV work here for many years. While the Board have focused more on pastoral issues for the church, they have been active with training of pastors and promoting good messages on HIV, including condoms."

"Anglicare StopAIDS is a PNG NGO that is also supported by the Board. They are a key agency here in the provision of HIV testing, community education and home based care and sexual health services."

Anne Malcolm, AusAid, June 2010