Ocquaye M, Labouchere P, Fiagbey E, Tweedie I; International Conference on AIDS.
Int Conf AIDS. 2002 Jul 7-12; 14: abstract no. F11909.
Johns Hopkins University Center for Communication Programs, Accra, Ghana
ISSUES: Cultural and community contexts are frequently cited as critical to behavior change in Africa. Therefore, there is the need to accelerate the rate that communities and individuals engage in meaningful dialogue on HIV/AIDS and sexuality in ways that are culturally acceptable. DESCRIPTION: The "Journey of Hope" (JOH) is a practical and participatory life skills tool that facilitates this process. It expands on the analogy of floodwaters that was popularized by Father Joinet et al. in Tanzania with the "Fleet of Hope". The JOH helps to establish the link between an individual's goals in life and current HIV prevention behaviors. It also includes fun and interactive activities that help to build supportive social networks in communities. It provides a framework within which to discuss issues of sexuality and HIV/AIDS in non-judgmental ways. LESSONS LEARNED: The JOH has gained acceptance and use by a wide spectrum of groups in Ghana including religious groups, schools, NGO's, government, youth groups, and so on. This is what people in Africa are saying about JOH: "I think [these are the] best educational tools that should have been developed long time ago... amazing." "As a young person, I feel that the Journey of Hope is precisely what we need right now to speed up the process which will lead us to change our behavior." "This is just what we need. Everyone, no matter your religion, can use it." Over 2000 kits were initially produced, trainings were conducted, and community groups have incorporated JOH into their peer motivation activities throughout Ghana. RECOMMENDATIONS: Based on qualitative assessments, JOH shows promise as an effective tool for behavioral change. More kits will be produced to reach more communities. The JOH is relevant for use throughout Africa with minor modification for country-specific contexts.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
- Africa
- Counseling
- Evaluation Studies
- Ghana
- HIV Infections
- HIV Seropositivity
- Health Planning Guidelines
- Research
- Residence Characteristics
- Sexual Behavior
- Tanzania
- education
- ethnology
Other ID:
UI: 102253199
From Meeting Abstracts