GIZ bases its activities on the Millennium Development Goals and the German Programme of Action 2015. It works towards reducing the number of new HIV infections and minimising the social, economic and political repercussions of the epidemic. In accordance with the position of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) GIZ supports the efforts of all sectors to combat HIV.

Involvement of all sectors

An open debate and commitment at the highest political level are vital to the success of multi-sectoral HIV programmes. GIZ advises ministries and national HIV organisations on developing and implementing HIV programmes and supports the involvement of persons living with the disease. GIZ is experienced in containing the causes and consequences of HIV in the fields of health, rural development, agriculture, education, vocational training, microfinance, private sector promotion, crises, water, governance and transport.

Health sector is vital

The health sector in particular plays a vital role in the prevention of HIV infections and the medical treatment of AIDS patients. In some cases health centres are overburdened with AIDS patients with the result that they can no longer carry out their regular duties. GIZ promotes improvements in the medical infrastructure and regular access to AIDS medication. It provides advice on raising public awareness and providing further training to health workers.

Prevention among specific groups

The most effective method of fighting HIV is prevention. The GIZ advises its partners in the design, planning and implementation of programmes for specific cultures and target groups. These target groups may be the population at large, young people or special groups of people such as truck drivers, refugees, intravenous drug-users, and sex workers and their clients. Through support and networking by non-governmental and grassroots organisations, the aim is to help the people infected and affected learn to exercise their right to information and health, and to protect themselves against HIV infections.

Cushioning the impact in the workplace

The economic repercussions of the disease are enormous, and both the public and private sectors are taking more interest in an involvement in AIDS control. AIDS increases the number of staff on the sick list, and personnel costs and leads to the loss of skilled employees. GIZ advises private companies and public clients on the introduction and implementation of workplace programmes.

Access to international funds

Funds are made available inter alia by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM). Effective support can only be provided if functioning structures for implementing the measures are in place at national level. GIZ promotes improved access to the services of the Global Fund and other sources of finance, quality assurance during implementation, and the dissemination of successful anti-HIV measures.