WHO recommended the use of the Xpert MTB/RIF – an automated nucleic amplification assay for the simultaneous detection of TB and rifampicin resistance directly from sputum in under two hours. In line with these recommendations, Georgia piloted use of the technology in Tbilisi and initiated its roll-out countrywide in 2014. The initiative has been jointly supported by the Global Fund TB project and USAID TPP. The Global Fund TB project has purchased an additional nine GeneXpert machines which arrived into the country early 2015. The TPP supported installation of Xpert MTB/RIF Systems and initial training of laboratory technicians at all selected laboratories including in the penitentiary facilities.

From February 7, to March 11, 2015 9 Xpert MTB/RIF Systems were installed and 16 laboratory technicians were trained in 7 laboratories of NCDC (Gori, Akhaltsikhe, Telavi, Batumi, Ozurgeti, Poti, Zugdidi) and in 2 laboratories of Penitentiary system.

On February 18, 2015 new CCM members orientation meeting was conducted. The audience discussed the  CCM guidelines and requirements; the Concept Note development process, HIV and TB epidemiological data, the ways of further improvement of the CCM performance and oversight.

On February 18, 2015 the Oversight Committee conducted the site visit to the HIV/AIDS Patient Support Foundation. The purpose of the visit was to assess the current status of implementation of the Global Fund funded HIV Program.

The financial support received from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM) has a critical importance for national response to TB and HIV/AIDS.

In order to continue cooperation with the GFATM and to have an access to additional funding, Country Coordinating Mechanism of Georgia (CCM Georgia) launched the concept notes development process.

The Concept Notes are being prepared through a broad country dialogue with an active involvement of all stakeholders. Two working groups comprised from the representatives of governmental and non-governmental entities, donor organizations, local and international experts were established. HIV/AIDS Working Group will develop the Concept Note before April 20, 2015. The development of the Concept Note by the TB Working Group is planned before July 15, 2015.

CCM Georgia welcomes participation of Non-Governmental Organizations, especially Key Affected Populations (KAPs) in the process of Concept Notes preparation. The working group meetings are open and all relevant stakeholders can participate.

Detailed information on the New Funding Model can be found at the following link: http://www.theglobalfund.org/en/fundingmodel/

For more information and inquiries on the country’s Concept Note Preparation process please address CCM Secretariat:

Irina Grdzelidze, Executive Secretary. secretary@ccm.caucasus.net. Tel: 51 00 11 (0615)

Natia Khonelidze, Administrative Assistant. admin.ccm@caucasus.net. Tel: 51 00 11 (0616)