10-30-2010 / Blogs / By Andrea van der Merwe
Working with gender in HIV/AIDS prevention
We have recently completed a very interesting and inspiring project with Stop Aids Now! The purpose of the project was to create a facilitator's toolkit that can be used by communities in Sub-Saharan Africa in their work to empower woman and girls. HIV rates are often higher among women and girls, and women and girls living with HIV tend to bear a heavier burden. This increased vulnerability is largely due to gender-based discrimination. To be effective, HIV prevention, care and support must contribute to transforming gender based attitudes, behaviours, and norms. The toolkit takes the participant on a journey using an appreciative frame. The project worked closely with community organisations to co-create a product that is strengthening to the community, and take into account local practices.