Grey Skies in Maputo

Today was structured a little differently to what was usually done. We began the day visiting the HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis clinic and laboratory of Communidade Sant’Egidio – Project Dream. We were greeted by an absolutely formidable 25-year-old 70-year-old lady, Florentina, the head nurse of the centre. She explained in detail and in practice how the centre functioned, how patients had their data logged, and how the screening and monitoring of the diseases was done. On top of that we had the chance to converse with the person in charge of the pharmaceuticals within the clinic, a lady who gave us incredible insight on how the logistics and distribution of medication took place, as well as how the logistics process was safeguarded. The second half of the visit took place on the top floor, which was the lab. The lab is seeking for international recognition by carrying out extremely important research on anti-retroviral drug resistance. The facilities within the lab were of extremely high standards, having little to envy to any of the labs that we have encountered in our lives.

Secondly, we met with Elizabeth Glaser Paediatrics AIDS Foundation, with whom we had a constructive meeting and will continue conversing in order to design a possible partnership that may aid them in their vision of providing healthcare to children across Africa whom carry the burden of HIV. The head of HR was very interested in the possibilities of this partnership and already had plenty of ideas for potential projects. We ended the day by having our last dinner in Maputo with the one and only Muheti, at his mother´s beautiful home. She had cooked some incredible chicken with coconut sauce that definitely made it to the top spot of best meals in Mozambique so far.

The day has ended on a very sad note when finding out about the terror attack in Barcelona. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of those affected, and strength to those who have been scarred.