Midpoint Reflections on USAID HIV Local Partner Transition Efforts.

Abstract

<h3>Key Messages</h3> Strengthening local systems through direct partnerships with local organizations and partner governments is a critical pathway to locally led development and achieving sustained epidemic control of HIV/AIDS. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has made substantial progress toward the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief goal of funding 70% of its portfolio directly through local organizations, including partner country governments. Five key factors that facilitated localization of the HIV/AIDS portfolio include: (1) developing strategic and intentional plans grounded in local reality; (2) customizing data systems to monitor progress toward goals and adapting them as needed; (3) investing in strengthening local partner organization and financial management capacity; (4) changing the way USAID does business; and (5) ensuring consistent USAID and local leadership and advocacy. Efforts in the first part of the HIV local partner transition have focused on reducing barriers on the USAID side; over the next 3 years, the HIV programs will need to focus on reducing barriers on the local partner side.