ABSTRACTS OF RECENT RESEARCH IN THE AREA OF HIV/AIDS By the MA - SPILL Students
1. Striving For Quality Care for PLWHA Amidst Poverty: A Review of Some Churches Effort In
Soweto Slums, (Nairobi) By Alice Njoki Kamau
The main aim of this study was to determine how poverty affects the type of care that
PLWHA receive. It sought to know what churches are doing to alleviate the suffering of
PLWHA. The main objectives are: - to assess the extent of poverty as a factor affecting
provision of quality care among the PLWHA of Soweto slums in Nairobi; To identify the
contribution of some main line churches in helping improve quality care for PLWHA and
whether the results can be replicated in other slums; To suggest ways of improving the
care provided by the churches through the researcher’s intervention; Finally to contribute
further on the existing body of knowledge on the link between poverty and care in the
field of HIV/AIDS. The key findings of this study were that:- poverty is not only a cause
but an effect of HIV/AIDS pandemic. It makes poor people poorer rendering them
desperate and without quality care. The poor PLWHA cannot access adequate clinical
care because they cannot afford to pay for medical services. Medical centres that offer
free medical services to the PLWHA in Soweto cannot improve quality because of the
large numbers of PLWHA. They are forced to seek for free medical services because they
cannot afford to pay for them elsewhere. Providing quality nursing care is also not
practical because PLWHA in Soweto cannot afford basic necessities like a clean
environment, clean water, disinfectant and proper nutrition. Counselling and spiritual
care can only be provided by friends and the church because professional counseling is
too expensive for PLWHA in Soweto. Many PLWHA join various support groups but
lack of resources hinder them from having viable productive projects. This causes
inconsistency in attending the scheduled support group meetings. Churches have not been
found to give much help considering the enormous number of PLWHA who require help.
Greater involvement of churches is required for caring for those infected and affected by
HIV/AIDS. The study therefore recommends that alleviation if not elimination of poverty
be the ultimate goal of Kenyan individual people, families, communities, civil society,
Churches, NGOs and the Government.
A Comparative Study on The Vulnerability Of Single Mothers And Married Mothers To HIV And AIDS
Infection In Nyandarua Archdeaconry In Nyandarua District. By Charles Gaikia Gaita
The study took place in Nyandarua Archdeaconry in Nyandarua District in the ACK
Diocese of Nyahururu. A total of 220 women were involved in the study, 110 being
single mothers and an equal number of married women. The study was prompted by the
deaths of single mothers due to illness related to HIV and AIDS. The objectives were: To
investigate the factors that made single mothers and married mothers vulnerable to the
infection of HIV and AIDS; To find out if single mothers were more vulnerable than
married mothers; To examine the activities of the Anglican Church which are geared
towards the reduction of vulnerability to the infection of HIV/AIDS and to suggest ways
of involving the church to collaborate with other stakeholders in scaling up interventions
leading to the reduction of the vulnerability. Data was collected through interviews and
observations. Data analysis was done manually in order to accommodate qualitative as
well as quantitative data. Results of the study seemed to indicate the following factors as
the drivers to the vulnerability of single mothers and their married counterparts: both
married and singles were vulnerable to infection due to low level of education, cultural
factors like wife inheritance, women circumcision, and early marriages, social factors like
stigma and discrimination, economic factors which are responsible for rural –urban
migration, wrong attitude towards VCT, condom use and lack of proper information on
individual human rights. A critical and comparative analysis of these factors seemed to
indicate that single mothers were not more vulnerable or less vulnerable to HIV/AIDS
than their married counterparts but were equally vulnerable. The study recommended that
education by the church, government and other stakeholders on cultural, social, political
issues that contribute to vulnerability be conducted so as to reduce the vulnerability to the
infection of HIV/AIDS.
The Effects of Pre-Marital HIV Test On The Sexual Behavior Of The Youth In The Church In Kabari,
Kirinyaga District, Kenya. By Esther Wairimu Iregi
This study examined the effects of pre-marital HIV test on the sexual behavior of the
youth in the church in Kabari sub location, in Kirinyaga District, Kenya. The pre-marital
HIV test has been made a pre-requisite to church weddings in some churches and the
number of youth avoiding Church weddings has risen. This study investigated whether
this was motivated by the fear of the HIV test. Both qualitative and quantitative research
designs were used. A field survey was done in six churches in the area. These included
the ACK, PCEA, Roman Catholic, FGCK, PEFA and Gospel Outreach. Sixty youth aged
between 18 – 35 years were sampled from these churches, sixty questionnaires
administered to them of which 98.33% were returned, with a failure rate of only 1.67%.
A questionnaire was also administered to twelve church leaders who included six pastors
and six elders. Focus Group Discussions were conducted with the females, the males and
a mixed group. In – depth interviews were conducted with newly wed couples (those
married within the last two years.) The study found that 62.71% of the youth have
secondary education and 66% have sufficient knowledge of HIV and AIDS. Despite this,
they are still having pre-marital sex, and are not taking the HIV test voluntarily. Only
20.4% of those interviewed had gone for the HIV test. There was avoidance of church
weddings among the youth in the Church for fear of testing HIV positive especially in
those churches where pre- marital HIV test is a requirement before a church wedding.
Over 72% of the church leaders in the study area are aware of HIV and AIDS. The results
if this study will lead the church in providing better pastoral care to the youth.
Impact of HIV/AIDS On The Older Carers: A Case Study of Grandmothers In Ngong Division. By
Esther Wanjiru Wanjohi
This research was carried out between January and August 2006 in Ngong Division of
Kajiado District. The research sought to examine the roles and challenges faced by
grandmothers in care provision for People Living with HIV and AIDS. The population of
interest was all the grandmothers providing care for those infected and affected by the
spread of this pandemic in the area of study. The information sought was collected using
an in- depth interview schedule, Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and case studies. Roles
played by grandmothers identified in this research included: financial support, daily care
responsibilities, psychological, social, health roles, agricultural roles, spiritual and
security roles. The research established that the challenges facing the grandmothers
included lack of basic needs, psychological and physical stress, exclusion, lack of
knowledge on existing medical facilities, limited access to health facilities and lack of
school fees for orphans and vulnerable children under their care. The recommended
organizations working at the local communities and government should integrate of older
persons as target group in the churches and NGOs. Provision of free and accessible
medical services in Ngong Health clinic. Formation of support groups and supporting
grandmothers by provision of livelihoods such as allocations of funds that would help
them to establish Income Generating Activities (IGA) to enable them provide care and
support for those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS, orphans and vulnerable children. It
is hoped that the Non governmental Organisations, churches. local government and other
HIV/AIDS stake holders will benefit from this study.
The Role of Care And Support In HIV/AIDS Control: Review of The Contribution of Friends Church
(Quakers) Program In Nairobi – Kenya. By Henry Apencha
The church has continued to play a key role in the care and support of persons living with
AIDS. Despite the potential of the church to make an important contribution to the
prevention efforts, the church has always faced many challenges to meet the needs and
demands of persons living with AIDS. It is in view of this factor that the research study
has been conducted to find out the role of care and support in the overall mitigation of
the impact of HIV and AIDS in the Friends Church. The main objectives of this research
study was: to identify the role of care and support program ran by the Friends Church in
managing impact of HIV and AIDS particularly among persons living with AIDS;
investigate the contribution of the Friends church HIV and ADS care and support
program; to identify the gaps in the current care and support program and opportunity for
maximizing of the provision services to persons living with AIDS, and finally to identify
the best practices and lessons that could be used in similar programs. A total of 25 male,
35 female persons living with HIV/AIDS 10 clergy and 5 church leaders were conducted
in the church compound. The issues that were discussed include medical service, physical
support, and social support to the PLWHA. The result from this research study confirms
that the Friends church provides counseling, medical and nursing care and material
assistance. But from the findings, these needs are not met adequately. The needs
identified are; the lack of HIV/AIDS education, pastoral counseling and financial
assistance for the basic needs such as food, shelter and school fee for their children. In
order for the church to provide better services to the PLWHA, the church has to
strengthen the economic coping capacities of PLWHA and communities. This includes
the reduction or elimination of school related costs, improve health care services and
increase micro finances especially investment funds to address local collective needs and
provision of welfare assistance. Use of community development approaches in setting
priorities, making decisions, and planning and implementing strategies can enable the
PLWHAs to take control of their destinies rather than depending on charity.
The Vulnerability of Men Aged Fifty Years and Above To HIV/AIDS Among The Mbeere Community In
Kenya. By Isaac Ngiri Muringih
The present sought to investigate the factors that make married men aged fifty years and
above vulnerable to HIV/AIDS in Mbeere Community. The research questions were: In
what manner do cultural practices affect sexual behaviour of men aged fifty years and
above in the community? Is there an association between wives’ lack of interest in sex
and the husbands' extramarital behaviour? In what ways can Christian teaching be
applied to help minimise sexual challenges faced by sexually active men aged fifty years
and above? The study used a participatory design with Focus Group Discussions and In
depth Interview as the tools of data collection. The target population consisted of
monogamous married men aged fifty years and above, monogamous married couples and
representatives of organisations implementing HIV and AIDS projects in Mbeere district.
The study used guided questions and sampled three Focus Groups, three couples and
Community Based Organisations at Karaba, Makutano and Karambari. The total number
of respondents was 51. The study showed that men aged fifty years and above are
sexually active, they observe cultural sexual practices like cleansing, they are also
influenced by modem lifestyle that make them promiscuous and they lack HIV and AIDS
knowledge and information. Based on these findings, the study recommended men
involved in traditional 'cleansing' should be encouraged to visit VCT centres to determine
their HIV and AIDS status before they are allowed to perform 'cleansing' rites. HIV and
AIDS implementing organizations should include men aged fifty years in their work. HIV
and AIDS policy makers and implementers should include social economic
empowerment programs that target older men and women. Churches should promote
sexual health education including information on menopause, counseling services and
demystify use of condom especially among the older faithful.
Responses to HIV/AIDS: Challenges and Success Among Single Mothers in Wang’uru Denary. By
Rev. John Baptista Mwangi
This research investigated the challenges and success of the single mothers in their fight
against HIV/AIDS. It was carried out in a cosmopolitan location, with different ethnic
groups, a background that gives this study its richness and credibility. The research also
sought to find out the role of the church in responding to the challenges of single mothers
in their fight against HIV/AIDS. The church that is expected to defend the vulnerable
single mothers is seen as a sleeping giant, doing little below the expectations. Data was
collected through self administered questionnaires by single mothers and church
representatives. The findings showed that African traditional beliefs and practices in
relation to single mothers response, provide barriers of achieving success in their fight
against AIDS. Gender inequality, illiteracy and poverty also emerged as the prime areas
where men take advantage of single mothers, thus sabotaging their efforts in fighting HIV
and AIDS. This research suggested that the church should revisit its approach to
traditions and encourage interventions that empower single mothers in their fight against
HIV/AIDS. The study further suggests a need for further research that can detail more on
the interventions to address traditional beliefs and practices. This may help to adjust some
practices that may threaten the lives of many people particularly single mothers. It is such
a research that can propose further interventions for the church and the government in
promoting the efforts of single mothers thus arresting HIV and AIDS.
Re-Thinking The Role of The Anglican Clergy in Response to HIV- AIDS With
Special Reference to the Diocese of Kirinyaga. By Joseph Nyaga Wangai
This is a study of the HIV-AIDS response by the clergy of the Anglican Church of Kenya
with special reference to the Diocese of Kirinyaga. The aim of the study was to analyze
why the clergy have taken long to effectively respond to the challenge of HIV and AIDS
yet it had been involved in development work of Christian Community Services (CCS)
since the missionary times, whose evangelistic ministry included provision of health and
education. The main. target of the study was the Anglican clergy in Kirinyaga Diocese,
church leaders and youth in the Diocese. Qualitative methods of data collection were
used. The findings revealed that although the clergy were central to the starting of social
services in CCS they were left out when HIV and AIDS programming was started
because of several reasons: limited information about HIV and AIDS and the attitude that
this was purely a medical problem requiring a medical response. Most of the early
trainings were therefore targeted to the medical professionals. In addition, the Clergy
likened HIV and AIDS to sin because of its association with sex. They openly preached
about people living with HIV and AIDS as sexually immoral and asked them to repent. In
re-thinking the role of the clergy, the Archbishop of Kenya Most Rev. Benjamin Nzimbi
became the role model in apologizing to the people living with HIV and AIDS and
challenged the clergy to be role models in spiritual and community social services work.
The study showed that the church is changing in its message moving towards an inclusive
theology and starting integrated programs which address pastoral issues alongside
poverty eradication programs and gender disparity as some of the factors that predispose
many people to HIV-AIDS vulnerability.
A Research on HIV/AIDS and STIS Education and Services for People with Disability: A Case Study
of Nairobi. By Muthoni Gachanja
The Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
(HIV/AIDS) pandemic has become a social and economic disaster with far reaching
implications to the community. The disabled people have not been spared by this
pandemic. This study focused on determining the impact of information on HIV and
AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) among the hearing impaired (H.I) in
Nairobi particularly in Kambui, Karen, Agakhan and Racecourse schools. These schools
were selected because they had the necessary information pertaining the hearing
impaired. The study focused on the current state of knowledge relating to HIV and AIDS
and other STIs among the hearing impaired thus determining the effective methods used
in sensitizing and creating awareness among these people. The tools for collecting data
included a questionnaire to the students and the service providers of the only Voluntary
Counseling and Testing (VCT) in Nairobi for the hearing impaired, a focus group
discussion was also used for the teachers from these schools. Data gathered from this
study was analysed using descriptive statistics generated by aid of Statistical Package for
Social Sciences (SPSS). Results indicated that the hearing impaired have very little
knowledge about HIV and AIDS and STls related issues and that interventions that have
been put in place to combat the pandemic do not adequately serve them. Consequently
there is a dire need to include the hearing impaired in all policies pertaining to HIV and
AIDS and STls interventions. Further, there is a need to teach and train more nurses and
other service providers so as to be in a position to assist the hearing impaired H.I
particularly when they seek medical attention. The researcher noted with concern the
scarcity of teaching materials thus making bibliographical data to this study minimal and
it is hoped that this work will also contribute greatly to this area of study.
An Assessment of the Grieving Process: A study of the Impact of HIV/AIDS Death of a Relative on
the Students of Selected Secondary Schools in Tigoni and Kiambaa Locations, Kiambu District. By
Patrick Wairi Gathagu
AIDS death has brought stigma to students who lose their relatives and yet fail to recover
quickly from the grief. This research examines effects brought by AIDS death and how
students from selected secondary schools in Tigoni and Kiambaa Locations, Kenya deal
with the grieving process. Grief recovery remains a big problem to such students who fail
to get adequate counseling and support from teachers, pastors and professional
counselors. The researcher in collaboration with students of selected secondary schools
came up with different groups that helped students to share their problems. Through these
groups, bereaved students expressed their experiences and learnt how to deal with grief
through sharing, Bible reading and prayers. The groups were used for data gathering as
well as for intervention purposes. The research realizes that school administration has to
come up with programs that can assist such students to recover from the grief in a timely
manner given the big number of AIDS bereaved students in secondary schools in Kenya.
That intervention helped them to get a sense of belonging. More than half of the
interviewed students reported to have recovered from the grief by sharing their feelings
with the researcher and other students in the schools. Practical assistance by way of
school fees and pocket money appeared to complement the counseling help in the grief
recovery process. Policy recommendations were also made.
Vulnerability of The Displaced Somali Nomadic Women To HIV/AIDS In Garissa
Town In Kenya. By Abdiwahab Elmoge Ahmed
This study is about displaced Somali nomadic women and their vulnerability to HIV and
AIDS infection. It was conducted in Garissa District, in Bulla-Iskadek, Bulla-Masalani
and Bulla Adaan slums of Garissa town. Garissa is the administrative headquarter of
North Eastern province of Kenya. Garissa district, like most other pastoral areas is
poverty-stricken. Many families seek an uncertain livelihood from livestock rearing
which is prone to frequent drought and diseases. This has led to many families migrating
to urban centres which in most cases are distribution centres for relief supplies. The
process of data collection was participatory learning, Focus group discussions and indepth interviews using guided discussions. The collected data was analysed using
qualitative narrative analysis approach. The study found out that the low levels of returns
from the small scale businesses the women are engaged in and consequent lack of any
meaningful savings for upkeep has been found to put women in a precarious position that
makes them vulnerable to HIV and AIDS infections. The cultural practices such as wife
inheritance, temporary marriages and arranged marriages and circumcision were also
identified as key factors that must be dealt with if the vulnerability of the nomadic
women is to be reduced. Poor access to education and health services is also a major
problem facing the nomadic Somali women. With high illiteracy levels their access to
gainful employment and participation in community development activities are limited.
This situation is further compounded by the poor living conditions in the slums. As seen,
the problems facing the displaced Somali nomadic women are immense and unless these
are addressed their vulnerability to HIV and AIDS infections will continue to be a real
source of concern. The accomplishment of this task is anticipated to take long as these are
issues which touch the very core of the community's wellbeing. Hence it calls for a
concerted effort from all stakeholders.
The Challenges Faced by Children Orphaned by HIV/AIDS in Rongo Division. By Edwina Abok Ager
The study was prompted by the presence of many orphans within Rongo Division where
many parents have died due to illnesses related to HIV and AIDS. The pandemic has
brought a social and economic disaster with far reaching implications to the community.
The study took place in Rongo Division of Migori District where a total of 48 people
were interviewed. The aims and objectives of the research were to: identify the
challenges faced by children orphaned by HIV/AIDS and explore ways of how these
children could be helped to meet these challenges; determine what is in place in the
Division to help the Orphaned and Vulnerable Children (OVC) through HIV and AIDS;
to suggest ways in which other stakeholders in the area and nationally can contribute to
these challenges. The methods used to access information were literature review,
questionnaires and interviews. The study indicated the following factors as challenges
faced by children orphaned by HIV/AIDS: low level of education and income; cultural
factors like wife inheritance; social factors like food, shelter, clothing, stigmatization and
discrimination. Psychological factors like loss of family, identity and inheritance. Various
forms of emotional challenges were also identified for example the challenge of children
playing the role of parents. The study recommended that government, the church, and
community based organizations should educate all on the challenges of the OVCS and
encourage communities to support these children.
Integration of Physical and Spiritual care of PLWHA: A Case Study of ACK Diocese of Mt. Kenya
South. By Rev. Isaac David Mbatia Muhoro
The main objective of this study was to investigate the effect of physical and spiritual
care given to people living with HIV and AIDS. The research explored the effect of
physical and spiritual care afforded to PL WHA in different settings. The research sought
to establish the publics view of the care given by close family members, secular and
religious institutions. During interviews it was observed that real or direct care givers of
PLWHA were not willing to disclose the nature of the illness or cause of death of their
patients. Only a few were open. The study found that PLWHA suffer from stigmatization
and discrimination leading to silence among the involved communities. The field work
was conducted between November 2006 and April 2007. Schools, churches and health
centres were used as research sites and respondents were obtained through simple random
sampling. The methods used to obtain information for this study were through library
research, interviews, questionnaires, focus group discussions and narratives. The research
revealed that stigma still hovers on people's minds and hearts including church leaders as
was revealed in some case studies. The study calls upon religious leaders to be more
cautious when dealing with PLWHA. They should encourage them by giving care,
showing love and concern and giving them hope to act as examples to the rest of the
community.
The Caregivers and Experiences with People Living with AIDS (PLWA) in Kawangware Slums.
Nairobi. Dorothy Muthoni Njeru
This was an action research which investigated the role and experiences of caregivers of
people living with AIDS in Kawangware slums in Kenya. It identified the caregivers of
people living with AIDS in Kawangware slums and the role they play as well as their
experiences and the challenges they face. The study aimed at identifying interventions
that can be put in place to improve the work of caregivers. The study employed a
qualitative method and involved nine people living with AIDS and 21 caregivers. The
findings from the study indicate that the caregivers in this place include the close family
members, people living with HIV and AIDS as well as trained community health
workers. The role of the caregiver includes not only taking care of the people living with
AIDS but also handling most or all of their previous activities. This enormous task
translates to almost a full time occupation for the caregiver, which leaves the individual
with many negative experiences. The study also found out that the interventions, which
can be put in place, would need to focus on the caregiver improvement of knowledge,
psychological, social and spiritual support as well as assisting them to access basic needs.
Family Conflict and HIV Transmission: A Case Study of Flower Farm Workers in Kericho, Kenya.
John Ndemo Mokaya
In spite of much effort to stem the spread of HIV/AIDS, studies and surveys show that
the disease still continues to spread especially in the rural areas of Kenya. Some gains
have been made, as is evidenced by lower infection rates among women in the urban
areas and these achievements need to be sustained. This study is on an area that could be
utilized to achieve such sustenance: The role of family conflict in HIV transmission and
what systemic family therapy approaches could be adapted to the fight against
HIV/AIDS. This research was done with the flower farm workers in Kericho, Kenya. As
the overarching principles of research used were action research and ethnography, indepth description and analysis of the flower farm workers was done of family conflict,
HIV/AIDS and the workplace and residences. Transformation of the lives of the flower
farms workers was a key objective. The study found that people are best understood and
helped in the prevention against HIV infection in the context of their family systems. The
use of systems approaches is better than individual ones as the former continuously
reinforce and sustain behavior change. Moreover, as part of the streamlining of HIV
prevention, care and treatment into work, recognition and development of skills and
capacities of the workers and family systems should considered; economically and
socially vulnerable people are not merely amenable to abuse and conflict and HIV
infection, but are likely to pass the traits of vulnerability to other workers and members of
their families.
Risk Perception of HIV/AIDS and Relevance of Risk Reduction Models Among Secondary Students:
A Case Study of two Secondary Schools in Chwele Division Bungoma District, Kenya. By Nyongesa
Aromo Johnston
The present study was undertaken with an aim of determining risk perception and
relevance of risk reduction models among secondary school students in Chwele Division,
Bungoma District. The focus of the study was to assess how the youth perceive their risk
of contracting HIV/AIDS and determining the relevance of the risk reduction models
adopted by Secondary School Students. The study centered on the following questions:
What is the relationship between ones knowledge about HIV/AIDS and perceived risk of
contraction? Are the risk reduction models preferred by the youth themselves? How
effective and appropriate is it to encourage the youths in secondary school to abstain and
discourage them from using condoms? What is the attitude and perception of teachers in
relation to the usage of condoms by the students? The study was cross-sectional and
contextualized and it combined both descriptive and explanatory research strategies. Both
qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection were used in the study. Focused
group discussions [FGD] and self administered questionnaires were used to collect data.
Participants for FGD were mainly teachers, parents and school sponsors. A total of 3
focused group discussions with 12 participants were conducted and a total of 290
students aged between 13-21 years participated in the study. The major findings were that
secondary school students are at high risk of contracting HIV/AIDS because most of
them engage in unprotected sex among themselves. Girls were found to start engaging in
sex at an early age. Abstinence was identified as the most effective method of preventing
HIV infection among secondary students and that AIDS education and reproductive
health should be taught in secondary schools. It is therefore recommended that student's
perception, knowledge about HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention should be regularly
checked and reinforced. The capacity of teachers at all levels should be improved to
manage health related programs in schools. The ministry of education should regularly
check and ensure that schools fully implement the education sector policy on HIV/AIDS.
Loss and Grief: A Case Study of HIV Orphans in West Kochieng Location, Kisumu District. By Rev.
Joshua Orawo Olweru
Problems of delinquency, mental breakdowns, illiteracy and other maladjustments in the
society, which are mostly associated with the orphaned children, is posing a great danger
that need to be explored in order to find a possible solution. Therapeutic interventions in
counseling and psychological support services provided seem not to achieve the intended
goal. This study assessed the effect of loss and grief experienced by children orphaned
through HIV and AIDS related deaths. The study also explored the effectiveness of the
therapeutic intervention of loss and investigates the causes of maladjustment. Qualitative
Participatory Action Research methods were used. Data was collected using participatory
methodologies that allowed both the participants and facilitator to have an equal
opportunity of gathering information and learning together. The specific techniques used
to collect information included: use of questionnaires, observation of thick description,
FGD, KI and individual in-depth interviews. In the course of data collection and
interviewing, the information gathered involved detailed description. An in-depth
analysis of issues and events was achieved through, probing, active listening and
paraphrasing. The in-depth interview conducted with individual orphans in a high school
and the two community focus groups revealed that 32 out of 36 orphans whose parents
died when they were aged below seven years, were never informed about the death of
their parent(s). It further emerged that that there was an increasing number of orphan
whose parents died of HIV related sicknesses. Stigma and discrimination was also
identified as a factor that interferes with healing process of the orphaned children. It was
also revealed that children whose parents died when they were aged between age 6-7 had
a better coping mechanism as compared to those whose parents died when they were
between age 3-5.The role of unscrupulous caregivers who puts their personal interest first
ignoring the needs of the orphaned children was identified as a factor that exacerbates
emotional and psychological stress, which limits their capacity to face reality and cope
with the situation. All the Key informants including the chief did not know the
government policy on care for orphans. Based on the study findings and situation
analysis, the study recommend that counseling and psychological support services be
offered for the orphans, capacity building on counseling for AIDS affected and infected
people be organized and sensitization of the general public on the government policy on
care for the orphans and inheritance be done.
Community Support for Child – Headed Households: A Case Study of Tigoni Anglican Deanery. By
Loise Nduta Musyoka
The study explored the coping strategies applied by child heads of households in their
efforts to pray parental role for their siblings. The phenomenon of child headed
households is becoming common in this era of HIV and AIDS and is a threat to child
development. The overall goal of this study was to find out how the challenges and
threats affect the growth, development and general welfare of children in child-headed
households. The research questions that the study sought to answer were: how do we
integrate child-headed households into the community to eliminate vulnerability, poverty,
infections, illiteracy and social maladjustments?; how do child-headed households
receive support from the community to enhance resilience? The methodology was
qualitative. This study was conducted in Anglican church of Kenya Tigoni Deanery in
Limuru Division and the methods used are observation, case study and in-depth
interview. The observation Method used a checklist that guided the researcher on what to
be observed as they visited participants to be studied. Case study method was used with
the heads of households so as to bring out exactly what their life experiences, challenges
and threats were as they played the role of parents to their siblings. The in-depth
interview method was used with the heads of households, community health workers,
church community Development Assistant, Limuru division. The key findings were: the
education of the child heads of households is adversely affected when they assume
parental responsibilities too early that continuation with school becomes difficult:
psychosocial support is poorly given through the orphans' programs run by churches,
community health workers, well-wishers in the villages and the support groups. Medical
care for these households is equally poor. The study concludes that the child-headed
households schooling is under a very big threat while psychosocial support from the
churches, villagers, relatives, community based support groups is also wanting. The study
recommends that for child-headed household to be integrated into the community to
avoid vulnerability, poverty, infections, illiteracy and social maladjustments all the
stakeholders must be willing to be involved to provide better care for all child-headed
households.
The Relevance of Rite of Passage Initiation Programs in HIV/AIDS Prevention: A Case Study of One
Program in Kikuyu, Kimbu District. By Leonard Njenga Mbito
This study was conducted between August 2006 and April 2007. It was conducted in
Kikuyu town in Kikuyu, Kiambu District in the Central Province of Kenya. The aim of
this study was to find out the relevance of Rites of Passage Initiation Programs in HIV /
AIDS prevention. A case study of one program offered by the Anglican Church of Kenya
Diocese of Mount Kenya South has been put on focus. This was an action research
which, involved face to face interactions, focus group discussions, in-depth interviews
and general observation. It involved about eight hundred (800) participants with ten (10)
of them being involved in intensive research process. This was due to the limitation of
time and the willingness of the participant in sharing their experiences and the nature of
the study. The research has identified that the program has seven (7) stages which have
been put as the themes in this study. These are the initial preparations, registration
allocation of rooms, Counseling (psychological preparations), preparing boys for
circumcision, healing process and the graduation stage. The research found that the
program is relevant and is contributing to the HIV and AIDS prevention especially the
actual circumcision and Counseling. It also recommended that sex education and
maturation experts to be involved in all stages of the program for better improvement in
its all stages of service delivery.
A Research on HIV/AIDS; Mother to Child Transmission (MTCT) in Mlolongo Township. By Margaret
Wanja Njogu
Despite the remarkable drop in HIV infection from 14% in the previous years to 5.9% in
2006 in Kenya, mother to child transmission remains on the increase in the poor urban
centers, slums, villages and rural settings. This study focused on determining the
underlying factors that undermine prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT)
in Mlolongo community. The study focused on the relationships of poverty, stigma,
gender issues and lack of information on PMTCT in Mlolongo population. The tools for
data collection included: three questionnaires given to expectant and nursing mothers,
grand mothers looking after HIV orphans and senior community leaders. There was also
Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. The results indicated that stigma,
poverty, gender issues and lack of information on PMTCT are the main factors fueling
the pandemic. Mlolongo lacks health facilities that adequately address health issues.
Consequently there is need to address stigma by educating people, to address poverty by
initiating programs of poverty eradication, address gender issues and give training to
traditional birth attendants (TBA). The researcher noted that there is need to research on
traditional birth attendants (TBA) in this locality.
The Deliverance Churches’ Role in Care Provision for OVC in Ngong Division, Kenya. By Peter Manji
Wang’era
HIV and AIDS and poverty have threatened lives of many children in sub Sahara Africa,
millions of them have been without parents thus depriving them source of love, attention,
protection and other necessities of life. Extended families communities and churches are
playing an important role not only in feeding, clothing and educating them, but also in
ensuring that they have acquired sense of identity, self-esteem and equipping them to face
challenges of life in preparation of living a full and healthy adult lives. It is for this reason
that the researcher carried out the study in order to find out the role being played by
Deliverance Church in Kajiado sub-region of Kenya in provision of care to OVC. Tools
used while collecting data included guided questionnaires to church pastors, church
leaders and caregivers and Focus group discussions. It was established from data analysis
that majority of the OVC receive minimal care if any of the basic needs. It was further
observed that churches and community members were doing their best to give support
but with little or no funding they cannot do much. With HIV preference rates coming
down and availability of ARVs being made free, we expected the crisis of OVC to
stabilize to manageable levels.
The Role of Microfinance Programs In Mitigating Impact Of HIV/AID In The Community With
Particular Reference To Nyahururu Municipality. By Peter Gichohi Gitau
Micro enterprise development is a strategy that provides a package of financial services
that include saving, credit and insurance as well as business training, health education
and nutrition. Microfinance may be referred to as financial services intended for the poor
and it is an important component of micro enterprise development. Many people living
with HIV and AIDS (PLWHAs) are poor. The Laikipia HIV/AIDS control organization
LAHACO is the micro financier in this study. However, the incorrect application of
financial services in micro enterprise programs can cause harm to borrowers and savers
as well as families, communities and the organizations that implement the micro
enterprise development. Most donors are known to push for rapid scaling up but such
rapid growth generates severe strains that can destroy an organization if it lacks the
capacity to structure and ability to manage it properly. The target population of this
research was 60 PLWHAs in Nyahururu municipality. LAHACO VCT Centre located in
Nyahururu town has screened 5,640 clients out of whom 442 have tested positive and are
living with the virus. Among them are 60 PLWHAs who have registered with LAHACO
Care and Support Program. They formed part of the participants of the research. The data
collection methods included focus group discussions, interviews and observation. The
research revealed that micro finance loans serve a critical role that enables the clients to
enhance their business volume or diversify their economic activities. The increase of
income is found to facilitate creation of savings and assets accumulation. Loans also
provide an important source of cash which help the clients avoid depleting their business
capital. However, the microfinance methodologies differ from region to region. It should
not be assumed that what has worked well in Asia and South America can be replicated
in Africa. Modification of the approach is necessary to match local conditions of the
target population. Results indicate that micro credit is a very critical tool in intervention
for reducing suffering of people living with Aids.
The Contribution of SPILL Base-groups to HIV/AIDS Prevention, Care and Support: A Case Study of
Nairobi and Its Environs. By Mercie Gachie
The objective of this interpretative action-oriented research was to assess the contribution
of base-groups in HIV/AIDS prevention, care and support of PLHA and care-givers. It
analyzed qualitative and quantitative data from focus group discussions and face-to-face
interviews with 49 base-group members and two SPILL representatives. The study was
conducted in Nairobi and its environs and involved six base-groups; two each from urban
slum, peri-urban and rural sites. The study utilized participatory observation; recording
of events; and direct methods of interviews—FGD and in-depth interviews. The key
findings revealed significant contributions made by base-groups in advocacy; raising
community awareness on HIV prevention; provision of HBC; OVC care; and support
(physical, material, spiritual and counseling) to PLHA and care-givers. Training
permeated all areas of prevention and care and empowered participants while networking
with other organizations facilitated better care of PLHA. Networking between basegroups however was not happening and neither were they being monitored which could
be a hindrance to the development of the program. Major challenges were financial,
arising from gaps and missed opportunities in micro-enterprise development; lack of
technical skills and material constraints. The study concluded that base-groups were
contributing to the national care framework as well as the Millennium Development
Goals that seek to reduce the incidence of poverty and HIV/AIDS including TB and
malaria. The recommendations included strengthening base-group founders’ skills in
micro-enterprise development strategies including fundraising to address poverty issues;
to encourage base-groups to network so as to promote sharing of good practices and
benefit from collective advantages; the SPILL program to share information with basegroups pertaining to local and international meetings and conferences so as to facilitate
the groups to engage in active participation on a broader level; to conduct systematic
monitoring of base-groups in order to enhance them; and lastly to conduct a more
comprehensive study covering base-groups in other parts of the country so as to get a
broader understanding of the contribution being made in different regions.
Accessing The Effect on Behavior of An Abstinence Curriculum For HIV Prevention Messages: A
Case Study of Senior Pupils of All Saints Cathedral Primary School, Madaraka. By Rhoda Luvuno
Dzombo
As the war against HIV and AIDS continues, different organizations have concentrated in
addressing either particular groups of people strategically or on the different themes of
advocacy, prevention, and care of the infected and affected. Though the focus on youth
and children has been an area of great concern for many, one specific age group, age 1014 has not been adequately addressed yet it provides what many have called a 'Window
of Hope'. In Kenya, this age group is mainly in primary school and the assumption is that
teachers will equip them with the necessary information on their reproductive health and
HIV and AIDS. This age group is just at the onset of puberty. They are able to watch and
follow TV programs on relationships and sex issues which leave them with a lot of
curiosity. They can read from the print media and are curious to confirm the truth and
may ask parents, friends or any older people about sexual matters. Parents either shy
away from giving information due to sexual taboos, or think that children in this age
group are too young to know or want to shelf this responsibility to a teacher in school
while friends give them myths or take advantage of their ignorance to exploit them. This
research assessed the effect of an Abstinence Curriculum for HIV Preventive messages
and behaviors by a Christian organization known as World Relief which focuses very
innovatively at this age group. It revealed that in schools, churches and government
policies the needs of the 10-14 age group are not adequately met making them vulnerable
to HIV and AIDS. If this age group is reached well and given life skills, it will reduce
HIV and AIDS transmission among youth and more responsible people on their sexuality
be raised up.
Theological Education and HIV/AIDS related Stigma: The Ministry of St. Andrews Graduates to PLHA
in Kirinyaga District. By Robinson Kariuki Mwangi
This study investigates the effectiveness of St Andrew's college graduates of 2004/5 in
fighting stigma in their pastoral setting against People Living with HIV / AIDS (PLHA)
in Kirinyaga District. The study poses three questions: Does St Andrew's College
adequately prepare church ministers to fight HIV/AIDS stigma? How effective are
graduates in their pastoral care to PLHA? What actions will graduates undertake in order
to improve care to PLHA? This study uses Ernest Stringer's model of qualitative action
research, and its major data collection method is focused group discussion and in-depth
one-to-one interview. Twenty-one research participants (graduates) are used. The study
employs guided questions to explore the experiences and perspectives of graduates as
they ministered to PLHA in their respective parishes. The data is categorized and
bracketed, revealing seven themes: teaching methods; sin and sexual taboo; God and
suffering; distressing encounters; triumphant incidents; extent of church involvement and
futuristic prospects. This study found the graduates ineffective in fighting stigma in their
pastoral care of PLHA: it therefore, recommends the need to re-conceptualise theological
education, main streaming the HIV/AIDS course across the "theology diploma
curriculum of St Paul's University, Limuru. This study also found that graduates will
need to provide cultural education within their parishes, addressing taboos towards
people infected and affected by the HIV pandemic. It also found that whilst graduates
understand theologies of suffering, they struggle with the paradox of the innocent
suffering and fullness of life amongst sinners. This study found that graduates experience
unknown fear when dealing with PLHA, causing mental and emotional stress, an attitude
which was relieved by the PLHA's desire to live positively. Furthermore, it was found
that Diocesan involvement in care to PLHA is negligible, and that the graduates are
intimidated by hierarchical reserve, which erodes confidence at parish level. It found,
however, that graduates look forward to the challenges of effectively fighting stigma
ART Adherence in Context of Home – Based and Community Care: A case Study of Namanjalala,
Kenya. By Dr. Samwel Chege Njenga
The present research was carried out to determine levels of antiretroviral treatment
adherence and factors that influenced antiretroviral treatment adherence in the context of
home-based and community care in Namanjalala, Kenya. I used the contextual
interpretive research design, and with assistance from community health workers studied
22 people on antiretroviral treatment, and 5 home-based caregivers. I used a semistructured interview guide and an observation schedule to collect data in the form of
detailed narratives. I classified the data into various emerging themes and presented the
analysis and interpretation under the following subheadings: A profile of the subjects,
factors that limited antiretroviral treatment adherence, factors that enhanced antiretroviral
treatment adherence, and the role of home-based care in enhancing antiretroviral
treatment adherence. The majority of the subjects enjoyed optimum antiretroviral
treatment adherence in spite of factors that could have limited their antiretroviral
treatment adherence in such a resource poor setting. Sound government policy guidelines,
provision of free antiretroviral drugs, and a highly motivated patient population promised
achievement of optimum antiretroviral treatment adherence in the majority of patients.
The majority of the subjects had improved and no longer required intensive home-based
care. The results are likely to challenge other researchers to direct their resources into
research on antiretroviral treatment adherence, and policy makers to review their
strategies for enhancing antiretroviral treatment adherence. I have recommended more
research on antiretroviral treatment adherence in other real life treatment settings,
antiretroviral treatment adherence training for all health workers involved in antiretroviral
treatment adherence counseling, and designing of strategies that will ensure sustainability
of antiretroviral drugs supply beyond the life of donor funded programs, prompt
treatment for opportunistic and inter-current infections, and home-based directly
observed treatment for children and adults with adherence problems.
HIV/AIDS Knowledge among the youth: A Case Study of AIC Kahuho Church – Ol’Kalou, Kenya. By
Stephen Thirikwa Muraya
World Health Organization estimate that over half of HIV infections worldwide occur
among people under 25 while infection rated peak at the age of 15 years. Several factors
drive HIV and AIDS pandemic. Lack of HIV/AIDS information and education is known
to contribute to increased HIV infections. This study is an Action Research conducted at
Africa Inland Church Kahuho - OL'Kalou, Kenya to find out whether youth have the
right information about HIV and AIDS. Data was colleted through interviews with youth,
parents, church leaders and pastors. Two focus group discussions were conducted. Four
other informants were interviewed. Personal interviews were administered to 22 youths
attending this church with the help of a research assistant. The key findings are that youth
attending African Inland church Kahuho lacked a comprehensive package on HIV and
AIDS information and education. The study indicated that youth accepted abstinence as
the biblical solution to HIV and AIDS. The study recommended that education should be
provided in a nonjudgmental environment so that youth can make conscious decisions
about their sexuality. Provision of education is not enough to bring about change in
attitude. The church needs to address all other factors that drive the pandemic. HIV and
AIDS can be controlled if youths are empowered with appropriate knowledge and skills.
This study is step forward in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Peers educators are identified
as key avenues in improving access to HIV/AIDS information. Parental involvement can
be enhanced through courses on effective parenting in the HIV and AIDS context. There
is need to develop appropriate HIV messages in the church in line with the existing
policies. In this study youth expressed their desire to go for voluntary counseling and
testing. Misconceptions were cleared on facts about HIV/AIDS. Stigmatizing attitudes
towards people living with HIV/AIDS was discouraged. The study has come up with a
HIV/AIDS curriculum that could be adopted in the church. This study is in support of
Africa Inland Church HIV and AIDS policy.