Workplace HIVST Distribution

Intervention Title: Leveraging the workplace as a platform to reach men with HIVST service.

Distributing HIV self-test kits at work
Distributing HIV self-test kits at work

Description/Activities: Conduct comprehensive mapping to identify workplaces, such as Dangote Cement Plant, Kafue Sugar, Manganese Refinery, Zambeef Farms and Neelkanth Lime and Cables, which predominantly employ men. Meaningfully engage with key stakeholders i.e. Ministry of Health and management in workplaces to secure their buy in and participation. Establish mutual agreement between management and implementer on service provision calendar to minimise disruption in productivity at the workplace. Formalise and structure relationship through signing an MOU. Link the workplace to MOH structures for effective and sustainable supply of HIVST kits and other technical support services. Develop M&E system to track implementation and results. Provide regular feedback to management on implementation progress

What Makes the Intervention Unique/Different: This is a client centred intervention which reaches men with confidential HIV testing services at work, hence minimising stigma and discrimination. In addition, it is a convenient differentiated service delivery model which
increases uptake of HTS and other HIV services.

Impact Data: During January 2019 to June 2020, 11,979 HIV self-test kits were distributed through workplaces in Copperbelt and Central Provinces
using a provider assisted distribution model. Over 83% (9,948) of tests were distributed to male employees, who ordinarily could not have been
reached through conventional means. About 3,256 (27%) employees reported having used the self test and 127 (3.9%) tested HIV positive. In line with the national guidelines on HIV testing services, confirmatory tests were conducted on all clients who tested HIV positive with the self test and started on ART. All HIV negative clients were linked to HIV prevention services.