Let us embrace: The role and significance of an integrated faith-based initiative for HIV and AIDS

Masangane Case Study The Vesper Society commissioned <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">ARHAP</span> to do research on the integrated Masangane HIV/AIDS <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">programme</span> affiliated with the Moravian Church in Eastern Cape, South Africa. Completed in 2006, this study aimed to understand the role of the <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">religious</span> <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">health</span> assets of the Masangane ART <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">programme</span> for public <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">health</span>, as a model for a replicable response to HIV/AIDS. A crucial aspect of this research involved teasing out what value is added to this <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">programme</span> by its faith-based nature. Field work for this case study consisted of more than 20 key informant interviews of various stakeholders: Masangane staff and management; church leaders; <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">health</span> seekers; donors and <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">health</span> providers. <span class="attribute-to-highlight medbox">Health</span> seekers also answered 77 questionnaires and were involved in two focus groups.