Understanding homosexual needs during the hiv/aids era in Tanzania, problems and future prospect: a case study of Kinondoni municipal
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Date
2007
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Publisher
Unversity of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
HlV/AIDS, devastating disease humankind has ever faced, kills all types of people with their differences in age, religion, race, sex and gender. Since its occurrence, initiatives have been taken and plans continue in combating the disease, but with all initiatives globally, regionally and at country levels Men who have sex with men (MSM) are still neglected due to their invisibility and vulnerability. On one hand, the study examined the issue of homosexuality in Tanzania and assessed needs, attitudes and practices of homosexuals towards HIV/AIDS disease. On the other hand, it sought to identify problems, constraints, including challenges facing them and proposed alternatives to combat HIV/AIDS among homosexuals. Both secondary and primary data collection methods were used in collecting qualitative data for the study. Primary data were gathered through one-to-one interviews that were administered to 40 homosexuals, 10 respondents from HIV/AIDS activists (three from TACAIDS, three from TAYOTA and four respondents from YOPAC) and 30 respondents who are living with or nearby homosexuals. The study revealed that despite high level of awareness on HIV/AIDS transmission among MSM, knowledge on prevention is still low. Meanwhile, the study revealed three problems and challenges encountered by MSM on HIV/AIDS prevention namely, inadequate knowledge and protection; lack of cooperation and poverty for the former. The latter were social and political barriers that drove MSM underground, dishonest, drug abuse and alcohol abuse. The study came up with suggestions on tackling the problems and challenges facing MSM in combating HIV/AIDS. They included financing and educating MSM, prohibition of illegal drugs, MSM recognition and reviewing of the HIV/AIDS national policy.
Description
Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library, Class mark (THS EAF RA644.A25T34M83)
Keywords
Homosexuality, HIV/AIDS, HIV/AIDS campaigns, Homosexuals
Citation
Mtasingwa, L. V. (2007) Understanding homosexual needs during the hiv/aids era in Tanzania, problems and future prospect: a case study of Kinondoni municipal, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam