In South Kivu, MSF teams are using a community-based strategy with trusted focal points and support groups in the community to help break down the stigma around sexual violence and HIV/AIDS, as well as provide information around essential services and care.

At the Misisi health centre, a group of MSF community health educators are part of a HIV support group called the Social Committee for Health Promotion. Unlike many people in Misisi living with HIV/AIDS do not hide. They appear publicly, agree to have their picture taken and openly testify about this disease in order to raise awareness in the community. They hope to rally more people to their cause in the hope of ending the stigma of HIV one day. The 35 active members of the support group ensure patients take their treatment correctly, organise home visits and ensure everyone receives food items.

In the Kimbi-Lulenge and Kamambare health zones, MSF works with 50 focal points for sexual violence. These community focal points are identified by MSF and the local village leaders. Most are female as the majority of survivors of sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) are women and girls. The focal point is often the first point of contact for survivors so discretion and confidentiality are vital. Their role is to listen to survivors, provide support and inform them of the medical and psychosocial care they can receive in health facilities supported by MSF. The focal points also provide some of the outreach work in the community with health education on sexual violence and sensitisation regarding stigma.