Assessment of risk perceptions to stis/hiv infections among seasonal migrant fishermen in urban/west region, Zanzibar

Migration particularly the mobility of fishermen has been found to increase the spread of HIV/AIDS along the coastal Tanzania. The fishermen of Zanzibar are highly mobile along such area and this increase the transmission of STIs/HIV in the region. Therefore, in order to mitigate the spread of HIV/AIDS in the region, it is important to understand how the migrant fishermen perceive their own risk of contracting the diseases.The study involved 160 respondents among the seasonal migrant fishermen and 6 respondents among the key informants. The mixed method research design was applied. The structured questionnaire and in-depth interview were used for the collection of primary data while documentary review was used to collect secondary data. The findings of the study show that only 22% of the respondents perceived themselves to be at some risk for contracting STIs/HIV despite that many respondents reported to be engaged in sexual risk behaviours. The study found various risky sexual behaviours however low condom use was found with higher prevalence than others. Many factors were reported to drive the migrant fishermen to be engaged into sexual risk behaviours, the factors include migration characteristics, access of daily cash income, and subordinate position of women in fishing community, substance abuse and limited access of health services. The study concludes that the migrant fishermen engaged in various risky sexual behaviours. Therefore the interventions that will focus to increase the perceived risk of contracting the STIs/HIV among the migrant fishermen are urgently needed. The study comes up with the following recommendations. Mainstreaming of gender equality and initiating empowerment interventions. Intensification of awareness creation programme, Collaboration of stake holders and increase the access of STIs/HIV service.