Project Masiluleke

The first project of the Pop!Tech Accelerator will be focused on the utilization of existing mobile technology and the development of new technology-based tools to help in the fight against HIV/AIDS in South Africa – and beyond.

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A Pressing Need

Our decision to address the South African HIV epidemic in our first Accelerator project was greatly influenced by Pop!Tech community member and front-line AIDS activist, Zinhle (Zinny) Thabethe’s moving presentation at Pop!Tech 2006. Through Zinny and others committed to developing innovative approaches to the many challenges put forth by the global epidemic of HIV/AIDS we learned that there are no simple solutions or quick fixes. In some provinces of South Africa more than 40% of the population is HIV positive. Addressing this crisis would be challenging under any circumstances, but it is made even more difficult by a number of connected factors. It is estimated that only 10% of those in need of anti-retroviral (ARV) medication are tested and treated, leaving 90% infected, untreated, infectious to others and likely to die. The social stigma associated with HIV/AIDS keeps many from pursuing testing or treatment. These challenges are further exacerbated by the limitations of an over-burdened healthcare system that is trying to address a multitude of health crisis simultaneously.

Greater access to ARVs is anticipated within South Africa over the next few years. However, the treatment regimen is often complicated, requiring individuals to receive supportive counseling to insure compliance and manage side effects. To effectively meet these enormous needs, new approaches must extend the reach of traditional healers and healthcare facilities.

A Promising New Approach

Together with Zinny Thabethe and Dr. Krista Dong, a Harvard University-affiliated physician and Director of iTeach, a South African-based support program providing assistance to those affected by HIV and tuberculosis, we are enrolling the interaction design firm Frog Design and other mission aligned partners to aid in the development of a comprehensive HIV awareness and treatment adherence counseling protocol that will utilize existing and new technologies. The project’s name, Masiluleke, means “hope and warm counsel” in Zulu. Please visit our website periodically for updates as this exciting project progresses.