HEARD conducts applied research to support development interventions aimed at mobilising evidence for impact in health and HIV in the SADC and east Africa region. HEARD is based at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban, South Africa and collaborates with a range of institutional and individual partners spanning the globe. HEARD supports UNAIDS, the SADC Secretariat and Parliamentary Forum and South African and African leadership in responding to issues of health, development and HIV.Mission

To inspire health and development strategies, policies and practices that improve the welfare of people in and beyond Africa.

General Objectives

To improve private and public sector understanding of the socio-economic impacts of HIV and AIDS through an applied research focus

To promote multi-sectoral responses to the impact of HIV and AIDS
To develop the practice of health economics and social/behavioural science
To train business and community leaders, professionals and government officials in the strategic planning for the management of HIV and AIDS and other health issues
General Principles
Effective interventions through sound socio-economic, social and behavioural analysis and interdisciplinary research

The transfer of skills
The sharing of knowledge
Capacity building
Research utilisation