Perceived Vulnerability to HIV Infection Among Pastoral Community in Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Vulnerability to HIV infection is a major challenge in settings where gender based violence, discrimination and power differentials between men and women prevails. Yet, there are gaps in determining the factors that facilitate vulnerability to HIV infection among pastoral communities.

Objectives: The objective of this chapter is to determine factors that are perceived to make the Borana pastoral community vulnerable to HIV infection and which section of the community is more vulnerable and why.  

Methods: Information on perceived factors of vulnerability to HIV infection were collected by using FGDs and in depth interviews with selected members of the community. The data generated were coded, categorized and summarized with MAXQDA qualitative data analysis software.

Key findings: Awareness about HIV and AIDS was generally found to be poor available information was found to be generic which did not factor in local context, which made the public doubt the credibility of the messages. Of gender roles only men’s mobility in search of pasture, water and market for livestock is associated with vulnerability to infections since this puts them in touch with ‘other women’ than their regular sexual partners. Although men are responsible for participating in and representing the family at public forums, findings show that they are not more informed about HIV than women, nor do they protect themselves from infections as a consequence. Despite recognizing the association between extramarital concurrent sexual practices and HIV infection, engagement in extramarital concurrent sexual practices by men and women of the community is found to be common.

Discussion and recommendation: Vulnerability to HIV infection in Borana is driven by various factors related to sexuality, gender and awareness that work in tandem.  Successful interventions should address all the factors together.