By Chrissie Mainjeni, Chiradzulu
Development Aid from People to People (DAPP) says it will intensify efforts in HIV testing and self-testing from this December to March 2026.
This initiative aims to manage early detection and risk factors under a project dubbed ‘Loto Langa’.
District Technical Coordinator for the organisation, Spenser Botolo, said this during a District Executive Committee meeting held at the Council Chambers in Chiradzulu District.
According to Botolo, the Loto Langa project is a transition of the Dreams Loto Langa project, which was closed in September 2025.
This follows a change in donor funding methodologies (President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief, PEPFAR) and regime change in the United States of America.
Unlike the previous project, which focused on HIV prevention among adolescents and young women aged between 10 and 24 years, Botolo said the transitioned project will dwell much on saving lives.
He said people found positive will be referred to health facilities for Anti-Retroviral Therapy, while those at high risk of contracting the virus will be recommended for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis.
He further said they will work closely with youth clubs and faith-based organisations, among other players, in the exercise for thorough implementation.
Botolo described uncertainty surrounding the resumption of funding as worrisome but was quick to assure continuity through existing community structures and well-trained personnel.
Acting Director of Health and Sanitation Services for Chiradzulu District Council, Dr Nelson Kamwana, hailed the project, saying it will help in managing the pandemic.
