MTN Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS program

Partnerships: Partnerships are fundamental component of MTN Nigeria’s HIV/AIDS program. Since the commencement of the program, the company has partnered with two service providers: Health AIDS Support Services (HASS), a consultancy firm, and HOPE Worldwide Nigeria. HASS has helped MTN to get permission from the United States based Johns Hopkins University’s Centre for Communications Programs to adapt a Q&A handbook which the center developed. The handbook, branded with MTN colors, provides necessary information on HIV/AIDS and has been shared to all employees. HASS has identified Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) sites, home based care services and other HIV/AIDS referral sites near MTN sites.

These services have been integrated into a “Pocket Reference Guide for HIV/AIDS Referrals” to help the staff in depicting the nearest HIV/AIDS services they may require. HASS is also managing the 24-hour helpline service for MTN and has designed a data card for capturing incoming calls. So far the helpline service receives about 10 calls per month, and the number is expected to increase. Hope Worldwide Nigeria on the other hand has worked with MTN in the training of peer educators, managing the KAPB survey, came up with an HIV/AIDS policy, and providing care and support services.