Mary Malonza’s world almost came crushing on her after she tested positive for HIV in 2010.
She was devastated after her mother-in-law refused to accommodate her, fearing she might infect the rest of the family members.
Her husband on the other hand remained largely aloof.
Her rescue came when she shared her predicament with medical staff at the Makueni County Referral Hospital, who enlisted her as a Mentor Mother in the Mentor Mother Programme in 2011.
The plump, tall and brown lady provides counselling to HIV-positive pregnant women while encouraging those who have not, to undergo the test in line with Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV.
Ms Malonza enlightens expectant mothers who go for prenatal care how to prevent HIV transmission to their babies and protecting newborns from acquiring the virus. “I encourage those who have not been tested to undertake the test. It is all about the health of the unborn child,” says Malonza.
For Malonza, however, it has not been a smooth ride.
She became the topic of discussion, ridicule and rejection from family after she tested positive in her second pregnancy. The mother of two was immediately put on Antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) to protect the unborn child from contracting the virus. The child is now five years old and healthy.
Back to school
“We want a HIV free society. When I see HIV positive mothers give birth to healthy babies, I am filled with joy and motivation to continue,” says Malonza whose desire is to go back to school and do a course in nursing and counselling.
They handle 80 HIV positive mothers who meet at the facility twice a month to share their experiences and encourage each other. Dr Pius Mutuku, who is in charge of HIV and PMCTC programme, says the mentors have helped reduce incidences of mother to child transmission.
“We have recorded 120 new births in the last one year and only one turned positive for HIV. That means more and more women are going for the test and taking precautionary measures as advised by mentors,” says Mutuku.
Those who turn positive are placed on ARVs immediately through Test and Treat Approach programme.
The baby is also put on ARV drugs for 18 months. Health officers closely monitor and assess the baby as it develops. The mother is meanwhile allowed to breastfeed.
