In communities across South Sudan, NEPWU is playing a critical role using Mentor Mothers (MM) in ensuring that pregnant and breastfeeding women access lifesaving HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care services. Through MM dedication, compassion, and close engagement with mothers at health facilities and within communities, they are helping to protect mothers and their babies from HIV while promoting healthy pregnancies and safer deliveries.
During the second quarter reporting period, NEPWU continue to provide Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) services across 16 health facilities in the country, reaching a total of 20,869 pregnant women (20,629) and their partners (240) with PMTCT-related HIV prevention messages at Antenatal Care (ANC) clinics. Their continuous follow-up, counseling, and encouragement contributed to increased uptake of HIV testing among expectant mothers and their partners.
As a result of these efforts, 3,153 clients were tested for HIV at ANC clinics, enabling early identification of HIV-positive mothers and timely access to treatment. Early testing remains one of the most effective strategies in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV, as it allows mothers to begin treatment and receive the support needed to protect their unborn children.
The impact of Mentor Mothers became even more evident in the identification and support of HIV-positive mothers. During the reporting period, 145 individuals tested HIV positive, and all were successfully linked to care and treatment services. A total of 145 HIV-positive clients were linked to care, demonstrating the effectiveness of the Mentor Mother approach in ensuring that no mother is left behind after receiving an HIV diagnosis.
Beyond testing and treatment linkage, Mentor Mothers continue to provide psychosocial support, adherence counseling, and follow-up services that help mothers remain engaged in care throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. Their lived experiences enable them to build trust with clients, reduce fear and stigma, and inspire hope among women who may otherwise struggle to access or continue treatment.
The success achieved through PMTCT services highlights the importance of community-led interventions in the fight against HIV. By walking alongside pregnant and breastfeeding women throughout their journey, we are helping to ensure that more mothers know their HIV status, receive treatment on time, and give birth to HIV-free babies.
With continued support from the Global Fund through Cordaid, NEPWU is reach pregnant mothers with PMTCT services at ANC department across 31 facilities in South Sudan NEPWU remain at the forefront of efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV in South Sudan. Our work is not only improving health outcomes for mothers and children but is also strengthening communities and building a future where every child has the opportunity to be born free from HIV.
