AEGiS-15IAC: An HIV/AIDS project were drama was used to reduce stigma.

15th International AIDS Conference

Bangkok, Thailand - July 11-16, 2004

An HIV/AIDS project were drama was used to reduce stigma.

Int Conf AIDS 2004 Jul 11-16; 15:(abstract no. E10129)

Musonda K
Youth Forum Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia

ISSUES: Abstract on stigma and communication based on an HIV/AIDS project theme: rural HIV/AIDS behavior change communication awareness campaign through Theatre for Community Action (T. C. A). Sponsored by Brarclays Bank of Zambia Conducted by YOCUPA. An HIV/AIDS project were Drama was used as a communication Tool to Address Stigma and Discrimination to people Living with HIV/AIDS.

DESCRIPTION: Specific Objectives were: To break the silence and conduct behaviors change awareness education campaign in 20 communities of Zambia. To reduce stigma in communities against people living with HIV/AIDS. To increase community participation and owarship through community action groups. The following were the indications used. Process Indicators. 10 T. C. A. orientations workshop conducted. 10,000 youth, men and women attendance recoded during performances. 20-community action groups' formed. Input Indicators. Performing artists provided human recurrence and artistic skills 600 venue and topic posters were produced. 30 radio adverts were aired. 20 discussion leaders were involved.

LESSONS LEARNED: The results were a credit to theatre for community action (T. C. A.) methodology used as communication tool to address stigma and Discrimination to people Living with HIV/AIDS. Increased number of people talked openly about HIV/AIDS this has telling effects. Reduced new infection rates among the youth between 15-25 ages. 10,000 beneficiaries educated on stigma and support for people living with. HIV/AIDS. At least 600 volunteers formed Community Action Groups. 600 questionnaires on the pre and post T. C. A. performances were administered to 300 youths, men, and women. Recommendation: It is recommendable and useful for broader dissemination because it is cost -effective and cuts across culture and social status.

Keywords: AEGIS, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, HIV Seropositivity, HIV Infections, Consumer Participation, Research, Communication, Zambia, Humans, Male, Female, education

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E10129