Engaging faith-based organizations to sustain lifesaving HIV and TB services in Ethiopia

The contract involves a funding opportunity from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) under the Department of Health and Human Services, aimed at engaging faith-based organizations in Ethiopia to sustain and enhance lifesaving HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and cervical cancer services. With an anticipated fiscal year funding of approximately $5 million (subject to availability), this initiative focuses on expanding access to comprehensive HIV services, including testing, prevention of vertical transmission, and both adult and pediatric care and treatment. The project targets key populations such as people at high risk for HIV, undiagnosed individuals living with HIV, those at risk of treatment interruption, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and individuals facing barriers to accessing conventional health services. Implementing cost-efficient, integrated service delivery models within the routine healthcare system is a core expectation, aiming to reach undiagnosed or treatment-defaulter populations and providing critical, lifesaving care for both HIV and TB. The initiative encourages country ownership by supporting country-led plans for greater program sustainability, and may also encompass efforts addressing other public health threats and emergencies in Ethiopia. The engagement of faith communities is fundamental to linking individuals to these essential health services, thereby promoting safer, healthier outcomes in vulnerable populations.