Data from Using the HIV Prevention Self-Assessment Tools (PSAT) to assess and monitor Sex Workers HIV programmes in selected countries in Africa

Introduction

The HIV Prevention Self-Assessment Tools (PSATs) were developed by the Global Prevention Coalition (GPC) as an easy-to-use tool for country-led review of national HIV prevention response against a global standardised set of programmatic components. As part of the South-South Learning Network (SSLN), country-level data on HIV prevention programmes for sex workers were collected by ten countries in Africa, using the PSAT.

Methods

Data were collected between August 2020 and July 2021 from participating countries. In each country, a technical team of 8-10 members completed the tool with support from a SSLN team member. The PSAT collects data for three programme domains: management, implementation as well as outcomes and sustainability, each of which comprises essential programme elements. Once completed, the tool automatically calculates the final scores for each domain, on a scale with the highest rating of 5.

Results: Overall PSAT scores ranged between 4.1 (Kenya) to 2.3 (Zambia). Of the three domains, Programme Management achieved the highest scores, with four countries (Kenya, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa) scoring more than 4. High scores were seen in the Programme Implementation domain as well; five countries (Zimbabwe, South Africa, Mozambique, Malawi and Uganda) scored between 3 to 4. For Programme Outcomes and Sustainability, except for Kenya who did not score, all countries scored poorly with scores ranging between 3.8 to 1.5. Comparing PSAT scores with UNAIDS suggested epidemic metrics have shown that countries with the highest PSAT scores also have high condom use rates and significant reductions in HIV incidence. 

Conclusions and recommendations: This exercise has helped the country’s leadership to self-reflect on their HIV prevention programmes, increase ownership and identify areas which need strengthening and develop action plans to address gaps.