Mali – Public-Private Alliance Successfully Provided HIV/AIDS-Related Services to Millions of People

THE PROJECT – In 2004, the World Bank and the Government of Mali began implementing a Multi-Sector AIDS Program (MAP) to enhance quality of and access to HIV-related services across the country. The project called for local NGOs to implement education, prevention and treatment activities throughout the country. Plan International, a child-centered community development organization, was selected by both parties to become the Agency for Contract Management, AGC. As the AGC, Plan provided training and technical support to NGOs and local associations to implement project activities. Trained NGOs and local associations received funding directly from the Government, mobilizing a total of $ 25.5 million. People who tested HIV-positive received psychosocial support and were referred to the nearest ARV treatment site. Fees for transport, accommodation and medical examination were paid by the project. RESULTS – From 2005 to 2009, Plan signed subcontracts with 237 organizations (including 167 organisations of civil society, 48 public enterprises and 22 private enterprises). 4,225,307 people received educational and prevention activities (e.g. condom distribution), and 179 testing and counselling centers were set up or strengthened. 1,424 AIDS patients benefited from ARV treatment; 1,470 orphans and vulnerable children benefited from project activities. 71,152 people were tested, including 42,752 women (60%). Among the HIV-positive individuals, 1,424 (including 841 women) received ARV treatment. CONSEQUENCES – This partnership of the World Bank, the Government of Mali and Plan International harnessed the energy of local civil society organizations to successfully contribute to the prevention and treatment of HIV in Mali.