We’re thrilled to announce that Help REACH Africa has successfully finalized the implementation of the Community Initiatives for Resource Advancement (CIRA) grant. This significant milestone brings us closer to our goal of empowering communities and promoting sustainable development across Africa.
The implementation process for the CIRA grant involved several key steps, following the ADAPT-ITT model:
Step 1: Assess We conducted formative research to identify necessary modifications to the HIVE 3 intervention manual and implementation protocol. This included assessing how assets could be leveraged to optimize HIV prevention and treatment behaviors. We also explored how peers currently share information about HIV testing locations, including their engagement with peers during the decision-making process.
To gather data, we conducted six focus groups with seven MSM (men who have sex with men) via Zoom video-conferencing. These focus groups helped us gain insights into community needs and facilitated the creation of informative text messages. Qualitative data analysis was performed using applied thematic analysis, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
Step 2: Decide Based on the findings from the assessment phase, our team met to make key decisions about the adaptations needed for the intervention.
Step 3: Administer The research team made initial adaptations to the intervention manual, which then underwent “theater testing.” A group of eight Kenyan MSM went through the manual and activities, providing valuable feedback for further refinement.
Step 4: Produce Taking into account the feedback received during theater testing, the research team produced an updated draft of the HIVE 3 intervention materials.
Step 5: Topic Internal and external topical experts reviewed and provided feedback on the intervention and training materials. Their insights helped us refine and enhance the intervention further.
Step 6: Integrate The feedback provided by the topic experts was integrated into the intervention materials, ensuring a comprehensive and effective approach.
Step 7: Train Peer facilitators, who would deliver the HIVE 3 -Extend intervention, underwent approximately 25 hours of training provided by the research team. This training equipped them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively deliver the intervention.
Moving forward, we will be piloting the HIVE 3 -Extend intervention (Step 8) with 40 participants recruited from the Help REACH Africa and Q-Initiative in collaboration with local partners. Participants will be followed up for three months, and messaging and peer engagement will occur through secure WhatsApp groups. These groups will provide a platform for participants to receive HIV prevention messages, share their experiences, and interact with peers.
Quantitative data will be collected through online surveys at baseline, 1-month, and 3-month assessments. The data collected will undergo thorough analysis to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of the intervention.
As we progress through the pilot testing phase, we remain committed to our mission of empowering African communities and improving HIV prevention and treatment behaviors. Our ultimate goal is to create sustainable impact and improve the well-being of individuals across Africa.
We extend our gratitude to the Help REACH Africa and Q-Initiative, and our partnering organizations for their support throughout this process.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa.
Stay tuned for updates on the outcomes of the pilot testing and our future initiatives.
Together, let’s continue working towards a healthier and more empowered Africa!