AIDSImpact.com:: - Santa Fe, USA 2011

Abstract #345 - Working with sex workers in prevention interventions
Authors: Presenting Author: Mr Samuel Matoka - International Federation of Red Cross
Additional Authors:
Aim: To expand innovative strategies to HIV prevention targeting key populations - sex workers.
Method / Issue: With funding from National AIDS Commission (Global Fund) and other partners, the Malawi Red Cross has mobilised and trained 90 sex workers in peer education in 6 districts, 15 in each district. Knowing that most sex workers move from one location to another, the Red Cross targeted only those girls who were renting houses or apartments near drinking places and lodges. After explaining the intentions to two sex workers who knew Red Cross well, the two sex workers went out and mobilised fellow peers to start working with Red Cross. The training sessions which lasted 5 days were facilitated by district level stakeholders who are mainly from Ministry of Health among other departments. In the absence of training curriculum specific for sex worker peer educators, the Red Cross used the existing sexual reproductive health, life skills youth peer education training package.
Results / Comments: Since the training, the number of sex workers participating in the program has doubled to around 200. It is encouraging to note that sex workers who have mobilized themselves to work in groups have all gone for HIV test and they have also incorporated male members who happen to be bar men, and guesthouse keepers. The inclusion of male members in their groups has helped to reduce stigma against sex workers. They are able to conduct sensitisation meetings in the communities on issues surrounding HIV prevention and ART. They are also involved in peer education at their places of work. They educate fellow sex workers on personal protection. They encourage their sex partners to use a condom correctly and consistently. Their campaigns attract huge audiences because of their good organisation skills.
Discussion: sex workers once given training and support can contribute effectively to the reduction of HIV incidence. Through working together with sex workers the stigma and shame attached to sex work, is reduced in the communities and this has influenced change in the leadership attitudes and perceptions.
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