Optimizing Retention in Care and Adherence to Anti-retroviral Therapy Amongst Adolescents Living With HIV in Rwanda

HIV has now become the leading cause of death amongst adolescents in Africa with over 2.1 million adolescents (aged 10-19 years old) living with HIV today. Poor adherence to anti-retroviral therapy (ART) leads to suppressed immune function, treatment failure, increased morbidity and mortality with significant costs to households and health systems. The investigators aim to undertake a feasibility study of an intervention targeting adolescents living with HIV in Rwanda built on two components. 1. Life-skills training: Adolescents receive training on economic empowerment, financial literacy, healthy relationships and adherence during the peer group sessions. 2. Financial incentives: Combined short-term and long-term incentives for clinic attendance and suppressed viral load that will be delivered through mobile banking.