Making Care Work Count 
Community based care-givers and civil society organisations have become leaders in the fight against HIV and AIDS in Southern Africa. Significant evidence shows how these groups have relieved overburdened healthcare systems and provided valuable psycho-social support to people living with HIV and AIDS. The majority of care-givers are women, many of whom are not paid for their work. With few resources and little government assistance, these unsung heroes are turning the tide in the AIDS epidemic. Read more.

Care Work Campaign 2009
In April 2009, GEMSA embarked on the second phase of the care work project. In light of the emerging research and policies in the Making Care Work Count campaign, GEMSA is conducting a “situation analysis” of care work in the following twelve countries: Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The purpose of this study is to assess the current policy provisions/guidelines for care workers. Through desktop research, qualitative interviews and focus groups, GEMSA will identify gaps in data and policy. GEMSA will use the research to form individual country reports and develop a “model policy handbook” for the region. GEMSA aims to engage governments and the public and create a platform for care work issues.

GEMSA ultimately looks forward to bringing together national HIV and AIDS councils, government ministries, home-based care and non-profit organisations to examine the findings of the situation analysis and assist in amending and drafting country policies. GEMSA will lobby and advocate for improved policy provisions in 6 Southern African countries: Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland, South Africa and Mauritius.