CODILUSI

SCIAF is currently funding two programmes with the Diocesan Committee in the Fight Against AIDS (CODILUSI) providing medical care and support for survivors of rape and sexual violence and preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS.

The province of South Kivu has one of the highest levels of rape and sexual violence in the world. Many survivors are left seriously injured, traumatised, pregnant or infected with HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Often, these women are disowned by their families and communities.

SCIAF works with CODILUSI to provide rape survivors with medical treatment, counseling and support to help them reintegrate into their community. The programme also funds social support for children born as a result of rape and pays for the training of community volunteers who raise awareness about the issue of sexual violence and address the stigma surrounding survivors of rape and their children.

Years of conflict have led to many rural communities becoming totally isolated, resulting in a lack of information on sexual health. The Education for Life and Family Dialogue programme targets schools and parishes across South Kivu to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS, encourage families to talk about sexual health and reduce the stigma and discrimination faced by people living with the virus.

Education for Life helps to reduce levels of infection by giving young people accurate knowledge about HIV and AIDS, enabling them to make informed choices and take control of their own sexual health. The programme offers HIV testing and medical care for people living with HIV and AIDS, and promotes blood security at hospitals and health centres.

CODILUSI also supports orphans and families of people living with HIV and AIDS and provides skills training for people living with the virus so that they can earn a living and support themselves.

In 2008 CODILUSI received over £74,000 in funding from SCIAF to support the care of rape survivors in the province of South Kivu.