EACS2023: 590 Engagement of Role Model Fathers to improve male partner participation in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Tanzania N. Makyao , A. Maro , M. Tumaini , D. Kayoza , S. Hashim , A. Kosia , A. Godwin , F. Ngalesoni , A. Muya , M. Msangi , M. Nyamuhagata , A. Nyirenda Amref Health Africa, Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of, Social Christian Services Commision, Community Development, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of, Ministry of Health, Reproductive and Child Health Unit, Dodoma, Tanzania, United Republic of General data Abstract category: Access and delivery of care Abstract body Purpose: There has been notable high HIV testing coverage in antenatal care, with 98% of pregnant women knowing their HIV status in 2021. However, the proportion of women attending ANC who had their male partners tested for HIV which is still low at 68% as per program data in 2021. Amref under the Global Fund Support uses role model fathers/ influential men who to promote male partners involvement through the community leaders to strengthen the linkage between the community and PMTCT sites. Method: We integrated male partners involvement at routine ANC in 330 health facilities from10 regions -January-December 2022. A total of 280 role model fathers were identified, trained and capacitated to promote, advocating and facilitating male partner engagement in early booking at first antenatal care. We also worked with the providers to sensitize and engage community leaders to integrate and promote male partner participation initiatives in their routine community activities using influential men. Results: After one year, a total of 107,660 pregnant women were newly tested for HIV and 857 were tested HIV positive which is equal to 0.8%. Almost half (proportion of 43% tested with their male partners. Couple HIV testing has increased by 79% from the baseline of 68% in our health facilities. Six regions indicated high performance of couple testing of above 85% while the lowest performing region (Arusha) reaching only 58% and the main reason for low performance being masculinity among Masai communities. Lindi Region showed a significant performance of 93% compared to other regions. Conclusions: Engagement of role model fathers can contribute to improved male partner participation in ANC and PMTCT. PMTCT programs should capitalize on this in addressing low male partner participation in ANC and PMTCT to improve effective uptake, retention and outcomes of HIV prevention and treatment services among pregnant and breastfeeding women infants and families. General conditions 1. I confirm that I previewed this abstract and that all information is correct. I accept that the content of this abstract cannot be modified or corrected after the submission deadline and I am aware that it will be published exactly as submitted.: Yes 2. I confirm that the submission of the abstract constitutes my consent to publication (e.g. conference website, programmes, other promotions, etc.). : Yes 3. I herewith confirm that the contact details saved in this system are those of the corresponding author, who will be notified about the status of the abstract. The corresponding author is responsible for informing the other authors about the status of the abstract.: Yes 4. I agree that all data provided may be used (saved, stored, processed, transmitted and deleted) in compliance with the privacy policy to provide the services described.: Yes 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 1 3 3 1 1 2 3 28 19TH EUROPEAN AIDS CONFERENCE | WARSAW 2023
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