Rodrick Simba is a driver with AHF Malawi. His story is next in our “I Am AHF” series featuring remarkable staff, clients, and partners who are doing what’s right to save lives everyday.
I grew up in Michesi Village in Mangochi District, Malawi, where access to healthcare can be challenging, especially in rural areas. Witnessing the difficulties people face in reaching care helped me understand the importance of strong support systems.
I joined AHF because I wanted to be part of an organization that makes a real difference in people’s lives. Its commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS and supporting communities inspired me to contribute through my role.
As a driver with AHF Malawi, I support the transport needs of staff and clients across the program. My work helps ensure that healthcare workers reach the communities they serve, clients can access care when they need it, and essential supplies reach facilities on time. By providing reliable transport, I help reduce delays in treatment and support service delivery. In many areas, long distances, poor or flooded roads, and limited transport options can make accessing care difficult.
The most rewarding part of my work is knowing I contribute to saving lives as part of the AHF Malawi team. Seeing clients receive treatment and improve gives me a strong sense of purpose. Even on difficult days, I stay motivated because people depend on what I do. I’m also encouraged by my colleagues and supervisors, whose support keeps me moving forward.
Through this work, I have learned—and continue to advocate—that HIV is manageable with proper treatment, and people living with HIV should not face stigma. Everyone deserves care, respect, and support. And it’s important for everyone to know that living with HIV is not failure; it is the beginning of taking care of your life. Or as we say in Chichewa – Kukhala ndi HIV si kulephera, ndi kuyamba kusamalira moyo wako.
I am proud to be part of AHF and to serve communities through my work. I’m also proud to support my family—my wife Tabitha and my son Takudzwa.
I will always carry the memories of supporting our staff and clients. No matter the road conditions or weather, they know they can count on me to get them where they need to go—even in emergencies. I also felt honored to be entrusted with driving senior leaders, including the Africa Bureau Chief, Mr. Martin Matabishi.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, hiking, swimming, and reading. My family and the words of my late mother inspire me most—they motivate me to keep working hard and doing my best every day.
