Gapa
Project Management in Cape Town

GAPA was started in October 2001 as a direct result of the implementation phase of a research project undertaken by the Albertina and Walter Sisulu Institute of Ageing in Africa at the University of Cape Town.
GAPA «Grandmothers Against Poverty & AIDs.
GAPA is a voluntary organization managed by a committee of grandmothers who represent different areas of Khayelitsha and an occupational therapist.
GAPA has received funds from the South African government, namely the Department of Social Development, the Department of Arts and Culture and the Western Cape Department of Social Services and Poverty Alleviation.

Homes in Khayelitsha are either brick structures or shacks or a combination of both. All homes have access to water and most have access to electricity. An occupational therapist organised workshops and support groups for grandmothers who were affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The intervention program was designed to meet the needs articulated by grandmothers who were part of the study. In 2004, through the generous donation of I&J the GAPA multi-purpose centre was opened which allowed for the expansion of GAPA’s intervention in the township. Ms. Budaza is presently still leading the GAPA team which consists of office staff (including an occupational therapist, a project coordinator, an income generation coordinator and a financial administrator), kitchen staff, aftercare teachers and grannies (committee and members). GAPA is managed by a group of staff members, a committee made up of grandmothers and a board. The board consists of community members and a diverse group of people committed to the development of grandmother. Various institutions of higher learning, both locally and internationally continue to contribute. Many religious institutions also donate in various forms such as monetary, clothing, equipment and food. Rotary Clubs and Inner Wheels also form part of GAPA’s supporters. GAPA has also been replicated and has started up in other countries such as Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Lesotho and Kenya. According to the Health Calendar, November is the month of Men’s Health: Prostate and Testicular Cancer Awareness, and as GAPA we also raised our voice to further mobilise the community. The day was well attended and it was a great success! GAPA’s intervention has a two pronged approach, education and psychosocial support. Workshops are held each month for grandmothers who are new to the project where they learn about HIV infection and AIDS. Practical skills to overcome effects of the pandemic on households are taught. The workshops cover topics such as HIV/AIDS and cancer awareness, vegetable gardening, human rights, elder abuse, death and bereavement, drawing up a will and business skills. Grandmothers are also invited to attend support groups held in area representatives homes once a week. Membership is voluntary with the only requirement being active participation. Grandfathers who are present in households support GAPA because it strengthens their wives’ coping skills, enabling them to take care of their families in the way that they are expected to. Income generation activities (gardening and making of crafts)