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Abstract
The post-war, the youth and HIV/AIDS prevention programmes in Uvira, South-Kivu region, D.R.Congo. A field investigation
C.P. Nkubizi1, P. Bahilo2
Issues: This abstract addresses the limited availability of HIV/AIDS resources and outdated HIV/AIDS awareness in the war ravaged Zone of Uvira. Several cases of sexual violence both during as well as after the war resulting to some extend in HIV/AIDS infection have been reportedly recorded. The recent field investigation conducted in Uvira determines the rapid growth of misconceptions about HIV/AIDS among youth and the non-availability of appropriate Reproductive Health facilities.
Description: The aim was to identify and measure the level of knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and perceptions towards HIV/AIDS among youth and also to find out what HIV/AIDS resources are offered and whether they are accessible. Debates, interviews and discussions with different youth took place under the support of a local CBO and Caritas International local office. Participants were divided into groups to discuss questionnaires about HIV/AIDS and other Reproductive Health related issues as well as pinpoint HIV/AIDS services that they often use.
Lessons learned: There are indications of frequent sexual abuses and casual sexual activities among youth; sexual exploitations of the girl child; cultures of substance abuse; a high number of school dropouts and higher unemployment rate leading to prostitution in girls; poor risk perceptions about STIs/HIV/AIDS transmissions and Condoms. Reproductive Health services are extremely weak and known to few. HIV/ADS resources are restricted and obsolete whilst Behaviour Change Programmes and VCT services are nonexistent.
Recommendations: Eventhough youth acknowledge the existence of the pandemic and the impairment it may cause; a lot needs to be done in order to foster a proper; coordinated and updated awareness. An appropriate and formative research is required to study the means of creating programmes that will see the access to VCT and quick initiative of Behaviour Change Programme interventions aimed at improving awareness of risk, endorsement of preventive and care seeking practices, and creating a support environment for change among youth.
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
CDC1564
Suggested Citation
"C.P.Nkubizi, et al.
The post-war, the youth and HIV/AIDS prevention programmes in Uvira, South-Kivu region, D.R.Congo. A field investigation.
:
AIDS 2006 - XVI International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
CDC1564"
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