Minimum Standards for the Integration of HIV and Sexual & Reproductive Health in the SADC Region

On the whole, Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) members have reported gradual improvements in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and HIV indicators. However, most Member States are not on track to meet Millennium Development Goal (MDG) 4 on reduction of child mortality or MDG 6 on HIV and AIDS.

The development of these Minimum Standards falls under the mandate of the SADC to promote and harmonize policies and strategies of its member states. The SADC finds that increased movement of citizens amongst Member States requires that citizens have access harmonized and integrated SRH and HIV services in each State.

These Minimum Standards were developed after extensive consultations with Member States, development partners, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. They are a framework which can guide Member States when programming for services around SRH and HIV. The framework also includes approaches which address the social determinants of health that hinder access to SRH and HIV services. Additionally, the Minimum Standards provide guidance on the integration of SRH and HIV at the policy, systems, facility and community levels in an effort to ensure universal access to SRH and HIV and AIDS services for the SADC region’s population.