TBD narrative - Continuing Activities

PEPFAR has provided funding to support HIV and AIDS interventions in the Malawi Defense Force (MDF) since the 2006 COP. Current activities are funded through Project Concern International (PCI) - see accompanying narratives. Pending an in-country visit by DHAPP to determine the follow-up plans for PCI (PCI is fully funded 2009 - 2012), DOD will program these resources for the PCI follow-up. Lab support to the MDF through the Partnership Framework to refurbish the three regional MDF labs is being undertaken by the lab partner HUTAP - see Howard narrative. The Malawi Defense Force (MDF) is the only military force in the country. Under the authority of the Army Commander, the MDF is composed primarily of army units, but has a marine unit and an air wing. Currently smaller than the authorized strength of 10,000, the MDF is a highly professional and apolitical force and customarily earns praise for its performance, conduct, and contributions when participating in regional military exercises and training with U.S. troops. The annual military expenditure is $11.2 million, which is approximately 0.73% of GDP and 2% of the national budget.

The MDF operates in a unique HIV/AIDS environment when in Malawi and in diverse HIV/AIDS environments during peacekeeping and humanitarian operations. Understanding such environments is of paramount importance when considering the risk exposure of soldiers and their dependants. Due to the fact that the MDF is largely located in the urban areas, its prevalence rate is estimated to be closer to that of the urban population. Available data shows that urban prevalence rate is 22.83% (NAC 2003) and 20.8% (GOM/MOH, 2003). Based on this data the MDF's Strategic Action Plan assumes the possible HIV prevalence rate for the MDF ranks between 20-25%.

The MDF has two sites providing antenatal and delivery services, Cobbe Barracks in Zomba and Kamuzu Barracks in Lilongwe. In addition, MDF provides antenatal services only at Chilumba garrison in Karonga, the Marine Unit in Mangochi, the Combat Support Battalion in Dowa, and the Malawi Armed Forces College (MAFCO) in Salima. MDF has plans to establish labor wards at the MAFCO and Combat Support Battalion clinics. All these sites are serving large civilian populations surrounding the facilities because government hospitals are not within reach. Since the MDF supports civilians in the surrounding communities, Ministry of Health (MoH) assigns at least one nurse or clinical officer in clinics that provide such services.

Linkages to the PMTCT program implemented by UNC for the MDF

? Implementation of PMTCT will be a first time activity for the MDF. ? Initially PMTCT will be executed at Kamuzu barracks as a pilot and then depending on successes, will be replicated in other units, starting with major units of Cobbe barracks in Zomba, Moyale in Mzuzu and Malawi Armed Forces College in Salima. ? This program will increase gender equity by involving and encouraging men (spouses) to participate and be available by accompanying their spouses to maternal visits and HIV/AIDS education on PMTCT sessions. ? Civic education that will encourage men to be supportive to their spouses will be highly encouraged to promote understanding as a couple with an aim of protecting the unborn child. ? It is widely recognized that gender norms-societal expectations of men's and women's roles and behaviors-fuel the global HIV epidemic. Equally, working with men to relieve their traditional male gender norms that encourage men to equate a range of risky behaviors-the use of violence, substance abuse, the pursuit of multiple sexual partners, the domination of women-with being manly would also help reduce the problem of HIV transition. Rigid constructs of masculinity also lead men to view health-seeking behaviors as a sign of weakness. Addressing these gender dynamics would play a critical role in reducing both men and women's vulnerability to HIV. ? Women will be trained on their legal right so that they are able to seek legal assistance incase of abuse. ? Involving women in income generating activities will make them more independent and self sufficient and less venerable to further risk of HIV infection. Reversing women's low status in many societies that contribute to limiting the social, educational and economic opportunities would help protect them from infection.

Budget Summary

PFIP Year 1 Funding - Redacted PFIP Year 2 Funding - Redacted

TBD narrative - Continuing Activities

PEPFAR has provided funding to support HIV and AIDS interventions in the Malawi Defense Force (MDF) since the 2006 COP. Current activities are funded through Project Concern International (PCI) - see accompanying narratives. Pending an in-country visit by DHAPP to determine the follow-up plans for PCI (PCI is fully funded 2009 - 2012), DOD will program these resources for the PCI follow-up. Lab support to the MDF through the Partnership Framework to refurbish the three regional MDF labs is being undertaken by the lab partner HUTAP - see Howard narrative. The Malawi Defense Force (MDF) is the only military force in the country. Under the authority of the Army Commander, the MDF is composed primarily of army units, but has a marine unit and an air wing. Currently smaller than the authorized strength of 10,000, the MDF is a highly professional and apolitical force and customarily earns praise for its performance, conduct, and contributions when participating in regional military exercises and training with U.S. troops. The annual military expenditure is $11.2 million, which is approximately 0.73% of GDP and 2% of the national budget.

The MDF operates in a unique HIV/AIDS environment when in Malawi and in diverse HIV/AIDS environments during peacekeeping and humanitarian operations. Understanding such environments is of paramount importance when considering the risk exposure of soldiers and their dependants. Due to the fact that the MDF is largely located in the urban areas, its prevalence rate is estimated to be closer to that of the urban population. Available data shows that urban prevalence rate is 22.83% (NAC 2003) and 20.8% (GOM/MOH, 2003). Based on this data the MDF's Strategic Action Plan assumes the possible HIV prevalence rate for the MDF ranks between 20-25%.

The MDF has two sites providing antenatal and delivery services, Cobbe Barracks in Zomba and Kamuzu Barracks in Lilongwe. In addition, MDF provides antenatal services only at Chilumba garrison in Karonga, the Marine Unit in Mangochi, the Combat Support Battalion in Dowa, and the Malawi Armed Forces College (MAFCO) in Salima. MDF has plans to establish labor wards at the MAFCO and Combat Support Battalion clinics. All these sites are serving large civilian populations surrounding the facilities because government hospitals are not within reach. Since the MDF supports civilians in the surrounding communities, Ministry of Health (MoH) assigns at least one nurse or clinical officer in clinics that provide such services.

Linkages to the PMTCT program implemented by UNC for the MDF

? Implementation of PMTCT will be a first time activity for the MDF. ? Initially PMTCT will be executed at Kamuzu barracks as a pilot and then depending on successes, will be replicated in other units, starting with major units of Cobbe barracks in Zomba, Moyale in Mzuzu and Malawi Armed Forces College in Salima. ? This program will increase gender equity by involving and encouraging men (spouses) to participate and be available by accompanying their spouses to maternal visits and HIV/AIDS education on PMTCT sessions. ? Civic education that will encourage men to be supportive to their spouses will be highly encouraged to promote understanding as a couple with an aim of protecting the unborn child. ? It is widely recognized that gender norms-societal expectations of men's and women's roles and behaviors-fuel the global HIV epidemic. Equally, working with men to relieve their traditional male gender norms that encourage men to equate a range of risky behaviors-the use of violence, substance abuse, the pursuit of multiple sexual partners, the domination of women-with being manly would also help reduce the problem of HIV transition. Rigid constructs of masculinity also lead men to view health- seeking behaviors as a sign of weakness. Addressing these gender dynamics would play a critical role in reducing both men and women's vulnerability to HIV. ? Women will be trained on their legal right so that they are able to seek legal assistance incase of abuse.

? Involving women in income generating activities will make them more independent and self sufficient and less venerable to further risk of HIV infection. Reversing women's low status in many societies that contribute to limiting the social, educational and economic opportunities would help protect them from infection.

Budget Summary PFIP Year 1 Funding - Redacted PFIP Year 2 Funding - Redacted

TBD narrative - Continuing Activities

PEPFAR has provided funding to support HIV and AIDS interventions in the Malawi Defense Force (MDF) since the 2006 COP. Current activities are funded through Project Concern International (PCI) - see accompanying narratives. Pending an in-country visit by DHAPP to determine the follow-up plans for PCI (PCI is fully funded 2009 - 2012), DOD will program these resources for the PCI follow-up. Lab support to the MDF through the Partnership Framework to refurbish the three regional MDF labs is being undertaken by the lab partner HUTAP - see Howard narrative. The Malawi Defense Force (MDF) is the only military force in the country. Under the authority of the Army Commander, the MDF is composed primarily of army units, but has a marine unit and an air wing. Currently smaller than the authorized strength of 10,000, the MDF is a highly professional and apolitical force and customarily earns praise for its performance, conduct, and contributions when participating in regional military exercises and training with U.S. troops. The annual military expenditure is $11.2 million, which is approximately 0.73% of GDP and 2% of the national budget.

The MDF operates in a unique HIV/AIDS environment when in Malawi and in diverse HIV/AIDS environments during peacekeeping and humanitarian operations. Understanding such environments is of paramount importance when considering the risk exposure of soldiers and their dependants. Due to the fact that the MDF is largely located in the urban areas, its prevalence rate is estimated to be closer to that of the urban population. Available data shows that urban prevalence rate is 22.83% (NAC 2003) and 20.8% (GOM/MOH, 2003). Based on this data the MDF's Strategic Action Plan assumes the possible HIV prevalence rate for the MDF ranks between 20-25%.

The MDF has two sites providing antenatal and delivery services, Cobbe Barracks in Zomba and Kamuzu Barracks in Lilongwe. In addition, MDF provides antenatal services only at Chilumba garrison in Karonga, the Marine Unit in Mangochi, the Combat Support Battalion in Dowa, and the Malawi Armed Forces College (MAFCO) in Salima. MDF has plans to establish labor wards at the MAFCO and Combat Support Battalion clinics. All these sites are serving large civilian populations surrounding the facilities because government hospitals are not within reach. Since the MDF supports civilians in the surrounding communities, Ministry of Health (MoH) assigns at least one nurse or clinical officer in clinics that provide such services.

Linkages to the PMTCT program implemented by UNC for the MDF

? Implementation of PMTCT will be a first time activity for the MDF. ? Initially PMTCT will be executed at Kamuzu barracks as a pilot and then depending on successes, will be replicated in other units, starting with major units of Cobbe barracks in Zomba, Moyale in Mzuzu and Malawi Armed Forces College in Salima. ? This program will increase gender equity by involving and encouraging men (spouses) to participate and be available by accompanying their spouses to maternal visits and HIV/AIDS education on PMTCT sessions. ? Civic education that will encourage men to be supportive to their spouses will be highly encouraged to promote understanding as a couple with an aim of protecting the unborn child. ? It is widely recognized that gender norms-societal expectations of men's and women's roles and behaviors-fuel the global HIV epidemic. Equally, working with men to relieve their traditional male gender norms that encourage men to equate a range of risky behaviors-the use of violence, substance abuse, the pursuit of multiple sexual partners, the domination of women-with being manly would also help reduce the problem of HIV transition. Rigid constructs of masculinity also lead men to view health- seeking behaviors as a sign of weakness. Addressing these gender dynamics would play a critical role in reducing both men and women's vulnerability to HIV. ? Women will be trained on their legal right so that they are able to seek legal assistance incase of abuse. ? Involving women in income generating activities will make them more independent and self sufficient and less venerable to further risk of HIV infection. Reversing women's low status in many societies that contribute to limiting the social, educational and economic opportunities would help protect them from infection.

Budget Summary PFIP Year 1 Funding - Redacted

PFIP Year 2 Funding - Redacted

TBD narrative - Continuing Activities

PEPFAR has provided funding to support HIV and AIDS interventions in the Malawi Defense Force (MDF) since the 2006 COP. Current activities are funded through Project Concern International (PCI) - see accompanying narratives. Pending an in-country visit by DHAPP to determine the follow-up plans for PCI (PCI is fully funded 2009 - 2012), DOD will program these resources for the PCI follow-up. Lab support to the MDF through the Partnership Framework to refurbish the three regional MDF labs is being undertaken by the lab partner HUTAP - see Howard narrative. The Malawi Defense Force (MDF) is the only military force in the country. Under the authority of the Army Commander, the MDF is composed primarily of army units, but has a marine unit and an air wing. Currently smaller than the authorized strength of 10,000, the MDF is a highly professional and apolitical force and customarily earns praise for its performance, conduct, and contributions when participating in regional military exercises and training with U.S. troops. The annual military expenditure is $11.2 million, which is approximately 0.73% of GDP and 2% of the national budget.

The MDF operates in a unique HIV/AIDS environment when in Malawi and in diverse HIV/AIDS environments during peacekeeping and humanitarian operations. Understanding such environments is of paramount importance when considering the risk exposure of soldiers and their dependants. Due to the fact that the MDF is largely located in the urban areas, its prevalence rate is estimated to be closer to that of the urban population. Available data shows that urban prevalence rate is 22.83% (NAC 2003) and 20.8% (GOM/MOH, 2003). Based on this data the MDF's Strategic Action Plan assumes the possible HIV prevalence rate for the MDF ranks between 20-25%.

The MDF has two sites providing antenatal and delivery services, Cobbe Barracks in Zomba and Kamuzu Barracks in Lilongwe. In addition, MDF provides antenatal services only at Chilumba garrison in Karonga, the Marine Unit in Mangochi, the Combat Support Battalion in Dowa, and the Malawi Armed Forces College (MAFCO) in Salima. MDF has plans to establish labor wards at the MAFCO and Combat Support Battalion clinics. All these sites are serving large civilian populations surrounding the facilities because government hospitals are not within reach. Since the MDF supports civilians in the surrounding communities, Ministry of Health (MoH) assigns at least one nurse or clinical officer in clinics that provide such services.

Linkages to the PMTCT program implemented by UNC for the MDF

? Implementation of PMTCT will be a first time activity for the MDF. ? Initially PMTCT will be executed at Kamuzu barracks as a pilot and then depending on successes, will be replicated in other units, starting with major units of Cobbe barracks in Zomba, Moyale in Mzuzu and Malawi Armed Forces College in Salima. ? This program will increase gender equity by involving and encouraging men (spouses) to participate and be available by accompanying their spouses to maternal visits and HIV/AIDS education on PMTCT sessions. ? Civic education that will encourage men to be supportive to their spouses will be highly encouraged to promote understanding as a couple with an aim of protecting the unborn child. ? It is widely recognized that gender norms-societal expectations of men's and women's roles and behaviors-fuel the global HIV epidemic. Equally, working with men to relieve their traditional male gender norms that encourage men to equate a range of risky behaviors-the use of violence, substance abuse, the pursuit of multiple sexual partners, the domination of women-with being manly would also help reduce the problem of HIV transition. Rigid constructs of masculinity also lead men to view health- seeking behaviors as a sign of weakness. Addressing these gender dynamics would play a critical role in reducing both men and women's vulnerability to HIV. ? Women will be trained on their legal right so that they are able to seek legal assistance incase of abuse. ? Involving women in income generating activities will make them more independent and self sufficient and less venerable to further risk of HIV infection. Reversing women's low status in many societies that contribute to limiting the social, educational and economic opportunities would help protect them from infection.

Budget Summary PFIP Year 1 Funding - Redacted PFIP Year 2 Funding - Redacted