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Upon graduating from Harvard College in 2001, Kenneth Ebie traveled to the Republic of Cameroon on a Fulbright Scholarship to study the coordination of HIV/AIDS prevention efforts in this central African country. During his year in Africa, Ebie conducted research with the National Committee for the Fight Against AIDS, assessed the operations of various grass-roots NGOs, and studied laboratory and clinical research efforts under a renowned AIDS researcher and clinician. Having gained a strong understanding of the problems confronting AIDS prevention education, treatment, and research efforts in Cameroon, Ebie returned to the United States determined to lend a helping hand.

The Foundation for Education, Culture, and Health (FECH) was established in 2003 based on several critical insights that Ebie gained from his year learning about the coordination of AIDS prevention and treatment programs in Cameroon.

 
Is lack of HIV/AIDS programs an issue?

There is no dirth of AIDS prevention and treatment programs in Africa.

Many organizations (both domestic and international) are currently conducting independent programs in Cameroon. As far back as 2001, one study estimated the number of AIDS organizations in the country at 382. More important than establishing new programs is the need to support effective programs that are already in place.



Is reliability of local organizations a problem?

A burgeoning "AIDS industry" in Africa has led to the proliferation of many organizations with a stated mission of fighting HIV/AIDS.

Many such organizations consist of individuals who lack the proper intentions, will, and expertise to conduct effective programs. Sadly, the proliferation of such shell organizations has resulted in the misdirection of millions of dollars in resources donated by well-meaning individuals and organizations abroad.


What is the government's role?

The government has established a national committee to address the AIDS epidemic, but most clinical and epidemiological research, prevention education, and treatment efforts are being conducted by private organizations that dependent primarily upon private funds.

Many of these organizations lack the necessary funding to sustain and expand successful initiatives.
 

In May of 2004, FECH was registered in the State of Illinois as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.

Through partnerships with several reputable organizations in Cameroon, FECH communicates these efforts to a broader audience and connects them with sorely needed material and financial resources. By helping organizations to help themselves, FECH serves as a vital source of support for organizations on the front lines of the fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa.
   
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Your donations will support the work of FECH, a 501(c)(3) organization, and its project partners.
All donations to FECH are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.