SSLN | Link & Learn on Programming with Trans and Gender Diverse People hosted by GATE

Introduction ‍

The disproportionately high HIV prevalence among Trans and Gender Diverse (TGD) communities underscores the urgency of targeted interventions. Stigma and discrimination create substantial barriers to healthcare access, making TGD individuals a key population in achieving UNAIDS' goal of zero new HIV infections, zero discrimination, and zero AIDS-related deaths. Community-led organizations play a key role in overcoming these access barriers. By developing and implementing inclusive programming, they serve as a crucial strategy for effective epidemic control.

Objectives

Gain a comprehensive understanding of strategies and best practices for developing and implementing HIV prevention programmes for Trans and Gender Diverse (TGD) communities.
Explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by TGD communities in different countries regarding HIV prevention.

Proceedings

The session kicked off with opening remarks from Lekoetse Mahao (SSLN) followed by Anil Padavatan from the Global Action for Trans Equality (GATE) who provided an introduction to HIV prevention programmes specifically designed for Trans and Gender Diverse (TGD) communities. Padavatan emphasised the critical role of inclusive programming. This background highlighted the importance of ensuring TGD people have access to essential resources and services for HIV prevention.

The focus then shifted to understanding the situation on the ground. Representatives from Botswana, Zimbabwe, Côte d'Ivoire, and Malawi shared valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by their TGD communities regarding HIV prevention.

The speakers included:

Nelly Tohobega (Botswana Trans)
Bee Chihera (Trans and Intersex Rising Zimbabwe)
Inza Coulibaly (Jinsiangu)
Prince Mikel Juao (Center for the Development of People)

They also presented successful interventions and existing programmes that are working to address these challenges in their respective countries.

A facilitated Q&A session led by Anil Padavatan (GATE) allowed participants to dive deeper into the information presented and explore collaborative efforts for improved TGD HIV prevention programming.