Converge Worldwide missionaries Art & Dorothy Helwig founded GECHAAN in concern for the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on Nigerian people. The NGO was registered in 2004 with the Corporate Affairs Commision of Nigeria. GECHAAN’s administrative office is located in Gembu, Nigeria, while networking with a wide variety of local, national, and international organizations.

Development

“Every Village Visitation” was the first major undertaking, designed to reach out to local leaders with a presentation on the epidemic. To control the rapid spread of this viral infection, we suggested that a number of deep culturally embedded practices related to morality be reevaluated. Over 100 villages were reached and gave feedback indicating a successful increase in understanding. Gradually, as situations were identified, initiatives were developed to address creating a comprehensive HIV/AIDS prevention program.