Being a Woman and Living With HIV/AIDS: Socio-Cultural and Economic Problems Affecting Women Living With HIV/AIDS in Arada Sub-City, Addis Ababa
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Date
2007-03
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The study has focused on identifying the socio-cultural and economic challenges encountering women living with HIV/AIDS, coping strategies, their basic needs, their roles in the prevention efforts and factors that make women vulnerable to HIV infection. The target population of the study is mainly women living with HIV/AIDS. In-depth interviews, group discussions and a questionnaire are employed to collect data. The study has found that poverty, in association with other socio-cultural factors, is one of the major factors that increase women's vulnerability. The study has also shown that women living with HIV/AIDS face severe socio-cultural and economic problems. Stigma and discrimination are identified as the major challenges that WLWHA are facing.
The study has found that the participants employ a variety of strategies to cope with socio-cultural, economic and emotional challenges. A majority of the participants visit religious sites for Holy waters and they turn to religion and prayers. Disclosure of one’s HIV status to support institutions and denial to neighbors and family members is also employed in order to cope up with socio-cultural and economic challenges. The study has also assessed the major needs of the participants. Some of the major needs are financial assistance, employment opportunities, access to healthcare services, housing, food aid, support for their children, social acceptance, and emotional support.
The study has found that women living with HIV/AIDS have been playing significant roles in the prevention and control efforts. Their roles range from protecting others by implementing precautions to a wide range of participation in awareness creation programs. However, there are still obstacles that have deterred the roles. These obstacles include stigma and discrimination, pressures from husbands or sexual partners, household burdens, health problems, and limited knowledge on how to participate in the prevention efforts
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Gender Studies