Exploring the Role of Community Based Organizations Specially Idirs in Mitigating the Spread of HIV/AIDS in Adama Town

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2007-07

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Addis Ababa University

Abstract

This study was conducted to explore the role and contribution of Idirs in combating HIV/AIDS through Home and Community Based Care (HCBC) programs in Adama town. Idirs are traditional community based organizations (CBOs) primarily established to facilitate burial ceremonies and comforting the bereaved. With the advent of HIV/AIDS pandemic, the role of Idirs has transformed from such single communal functions to HIV/AIDS prevention and control. Ten Idirs in Adama have been implementing HCBC program to improve the quality of life of bed-ridden patients and their families. The study employed qualitative research method. Three Idirs that included in the study were selected randomly. After the three Idirs identified, the research participants were selected using purposive sampling technique. The qualitative data gathering instruments included in-depth interview, focus group discussion and observation. Subjects of the study include program beneficiaries, voluntary care givers and Idirs HCBC committee members. Key informant interview also was carried out with government and non-government organizations representatives. The study involved strict respect for informed consent, voluntary participation and confidentiality. The findings of the study indicated that Idirs HCBC program has significantly contributed to improve the life of bed-ridden patients. Despite the important work of Idirs HBCB program, patients expressed unmet needs. Hence, insufficient nutrition support, housing problem, and care for AIDS orphans were major challenges of the program. The study recommended the strengthening of HCBC program referral chain, local resource capacity, protecting and care of AIDS orphans and intervening in income generating activity (IGA) and integrating family planning services with HIV/AIDS prevention

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Social Work

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