In Their Eyes: HIV prevention from an Islamic perspective in Lamu, Kenya.

Authors

  • A O Maulana Red Cross Society, Nairobi, Kenya
  • A Krumeich Maastricht University, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences
  • B van den Borne Maastricht University, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/hcs.2012.73

Abstract

Despite efforts to curb the spread of HIV amongst the youth and its positive indication of success in Kenya, the epidemic continues to pose serious challenges to these efforts amongst all demographic groupings across Kenya. This article presents findings of a qualitative study involving 45 youth and 23 Islamic leaders from Lamu, Kenya. The study looked at participant’s perceptions of HIV/AIDS. It also explored participant’s perceptions on what they see as the factors influencing HIV transmission amongst the Lamu youth. Additionally a literature review was used together with the study findings to identify elements for an Islamic based HIV prevention intervention.

Our findings indicated that both the youth and religious leaders’ perceptions of HIV/AIDS comprise a mixture of facts and misconceptions. The participants identified idleness, drug abuse and premarital sex as key factors contributing to the risk of HIV infection amongst the Lamu youth. The symbiotic relationship between religious leaders and youth on various aspects of daily practices was evident throughout the study thereby suggesting the importance of working with both in addressing HIV/AIDS in Lamu.

 

Author Biographies

A O Maulana, Red Cross Society, Nairobi, Kenya

Ms. Aisha Omar Maulana, coordinates social outreach of the Kenyan Red Cross Society, Department of Health and Social Services, Nairobi

A Krumeich, Maastricht University, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences

Dr. Anja Krumeich is researcher and professor with the Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Maastricht University

B van den Borne, Maastricht University, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences

Professor Bart van den Borne is Emeritus professor of Patient Education. His areas of research and publication include: infectious diseases (HIV/AIDS, malaria, TB); capacity building; developing countries; cancer; coping, and patient education. He is part of the Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Maastricht University

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Published

2012-04-25

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 1 (2012): Health System Dynamics and Barriers

Section

Articles

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