ENGAGE Project

ENGAGE: This is 4 years: 1st January 2023 to 31st December 2026, an implementation research project that aims to optimize care for the prevention of vertical HIV transmission among pregnant and postpartum (Mother to Child-PMTCT) adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) aged 15-24 years with HIV and for their infants, as well as improve the prevention of unintended pregnancies in this group in Tanzania. To do so, we will use data from a large registry-based cohort of women enrolled in vertical HIV prevention services in routine healthcare to identify the most at-risk AGYW. We will combine this with qualitative research and evidence reviews and utilise findings to co-design (together with the AGYW and other key stakeholders) and pilot an intervention package to (better) meet AGYW’s needs. 

IMPLEMENTATION: The ENGAGE project is implemented in Dar es Salaam, Kagera and Tabora regions by Management and Development for Health in Tanzania in collaboration with Karolinska Institute. (KI) of Sweden.

OBJECTIVES:

1. Sub-study I: Cohort Study
• Investigate PMTCT retention, service uptake, and health outcomes.
• Determine HIV-free survival among infants.
• Assess timing and spacing of subsequent pregnancies.
2. Sub-study II: Systematic Reviews & Qualitative Research
• Synthesise evidence on barriers and interventions.
• Understand drivers of care engagement from AGYW and stakeholder perspectives.
3. Sub-study III: Co-production of Interventions
• Co-design differentiated care packages with AGYW, healthcare providers, and stakeholders.
4. Sub-study IV: Pilot Testing
• Evaluate the feasibility and initial impact of intervention packages through a cluster-randomised study

COLLABORATORS & STAKEHOLDERS

Key partners include the Ministry of Health (MoH), PORALG, RHMTs, PEPFAR, and CDC.

Beneficiaries: Pregnant/breastfeeding AGYW living with HIV and their infants.