The United States Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (USCDC) has empowered 734,000 individuals living with HIV or affected by the disease through its Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) intervention program across 19 states in Nigeria.
Femi Oke, Programme Specialist at CDC Nigeria, shared this achievement during a media conference in Abuja, stressing the program’s focus on empowering vulnerable populations economically and improving their overall well-being.
Oke explained that the OVC program facilitates the creation of saving groups within communities, comprising 15 to 25 individuals who meet regularly to save and borrow for emergencies, paying monthly interest as agreed by the group.
”After approximately 12 months, all savings and earnings are distributed back to group members, contributing to increased household financial assets and decreased vulnerability to economic shocks.
”Moreover, the program adopts a case management approach, partnering with children and families to identify their needs and achieve specific household goals.
”Through financial literacy training and support, vulnerable households have gained valuable skills in household management and income generation, enabling them to meet emergency needs and care for their children independently,” she stated.
Dennis Onotu, Branch Chief of Continuum Care and Treatment at the US CDC, highlighted the OVC program’s efficiency in targeting the most vulnerable beneficiaries, particularly women and children affected by HIV/AIDS.
He expressed the Centre’s commitment to collaborating with implementing partners and community-based organizations to provide services that enhance the well-being of beneficiaries.
”The OVC program has not only empowered individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS but also demonstrated the impact of community-based interventions in promoting economic resilience and improving the overall quality of life,” he said.
