Transforming Care, Restoring Hope: The Lasting Impact of the Police and prisons healthcare project

As our Police and Prisons Healthcare Project came to a close a few months ago, it left behind a powerful legacy of strengthened health systems, restored trust, and healthier lives among police and prison officers, their families, prison inmates, and surrounding communities. Implemented since 2021, the project demonstrated how targeted investments can transform HIV and TB prevention, care, and treatment services within uniformed services—where access and continuity of care are often most challenging. One of the clearest examples of this transformation is found at the Mbeya Field Force Unit (FFU) Dispensary. A Diagnostic Breakthrough That Changed Everything At the heart of Mbeya FFU Dispensary’s Care and Treatment Clinic (CTC) stands a GeneXpert machine—quietly revolutionizing how HIV services are delivered. Before its installation, HIV viral load (HVL) testing was slow and uncertain, with samples sent to distant laboratories and results taking up to three months to return. This delay discouraged clients, strained healthcare workers, and undermined adherence to treatment. With support from the Police and prisons healthcare project, that story changed dramatically. HVL coverage among eligible clients surged from just 34% in June 2021 to an impressive 95% by February 2022—a leap that reflects not only improved diagnostics, but renewed confidence in the health system. Faster Results, Stronger Trust

Clinician Baraka Luoga describes the shift as transformational. “Before, we waited months for viral load results. Now, we receive them within one day,” he said. “This has motivated both clients and healthcare providers, and it has reduced congestion at the clinic.” The rapid turnaround has enabled six-month multi-month dispensing of antiretroviral therapy (ART), allowing clients to spend less time at the facility and more time caring for their families, working, and living full lives. A Client’s Story of Renewal For OB, a recipient of care at the clinic, timely HVL results became a turning point. “Knowing my HIV viral load results almost immediately after the test motivated me to stay committed to my ARV medication routine,” she shared. “Qualifying for a multi-month ART plan means I no longer need to attend the clinic monthly. I now have more time for my family and income-generating activities.” Her experience reflects a broader truth: when clients understand their health status quickly, adherence improves—and so do outcomes. Strengthening Laboratory Services

Behind the scenes, the impact has been just as profound. Laboratory Technician Fauz Abubakar notes that the GeneXpert machine eliminated the need to transport samples to other facilities, reducing the risk of sample loss or degradation. “Unlike in the past, our clients can now receive their HVL results within one day,” he said. “This allows us to act immediately—whether that means reassurance or enhanced adherence counselling. We are very thankful for this crucial investment.” Retention, Adherence, and Confidence Rebuilt Peer Educators at Mbeya FFU Dispensary have witnessed a noticeable improvement in client retention and adherence to ART. Complaints about delayed results—once a major barrier—have virtually disappeared. “Since the installation of the GeneXpert machine, all clients receive their HVL results within one day,” said Peer Educator Tabea Iteleke. “Clients are now taking their medications with confidence, knowing their viral load status.” A Broader, Enduring Impact Mbeya FFU Dispensary is one of ten facilities that received GeneXpert machines under the project. Implemented across 35 districts in Tanzania and Zanzibar, the initiative strengthened HIV and TB services for uniformed officers, inmates, families, and neighboring communities—while aligning closely with Government of Tanzania and PEPFAR guidance on integrated, person-centered care. As the project concludes, its impact continues to resonate. The experience at Mbeya FFU Dispensary shows that when diagnostic technology meets dedicated healthcare workers and empowered clients, the results go far beyond numbers. They restore dignity, rebuild trust, and prove that even in the most challenging settings, quality HIV and TB care is not only possible—it is transformative.