RESEARCH

HIV/AIDS Communication Programmes are Getting the Message Across: National Survey Finds

HIV/AIDS communication programmes in South Africa are successfully influencing people to have safer sexual relationships – and the more programmes to which people are exposed, the more they take heed.

This is the conclusion of the second National Communication Survey on HIV/AIDS 2009(NCS 09). Dr Saul Johnson, of Health & Development Africa, who led the research process, says that overall, the country’s HIV/AIDS communication programmes are working – and they are having a positive impact particularly with youth, on the levels of condom usage, HIV testing, and knowledge of the risks of having multiple sexual partners. Read More...

Key Insight: Understanding local dynamics in the HIV Epidemic

In April 2008, Johns Hopkins Health and Education in South Africa (JHHESA) approached Health and Development Africa (HDA) to design and undertake formative evaluations in the areas served by four of their partner organisations with the broader objective of advocating for evidence-informed strategies and coordinated efforts in these districts. These areas are:

  • Matjhabeng and Masilonyana Local Municipalities, Lejweleputswa District, Free State Province
    (Download Report)
  • Madibeng Local Municipality, Bojanala District, North West Province
    (Download Report)
  • Merafong City Local Municipality, West Rand District, Gauteng Province
    (Download Report)
  • EThekwini metro Municipality, EThekwini District, KwaZulu-Natal Province
    (Download Report)

Strengthening PMTCT through communication

A literature review on social mobilization and communication in support of prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. Prepared as part of a research project in support of the South African ‘Operational Plan for Accelerating PMTCT Services’ with the support of UNICEF. The preparation of this literature review was supported by funding and technical assistance from UNICEF, South Africa.

The First National Communication Survey, 2006

JHHESA together with the National Department of Health’s Khomanani Campaign funded the first ever National HIV and AIDS Communication Survey to investigate the impact of 19 HIV prevention communication programs. The survey comprised a sample size of 7,006, restricted to household members from 15 to 65 years of age. The study found that direct exposure to communication interventions had substantial effect on condom use; knowledge help lines, helping someone with AIDS. 

A provincial analysis of the National Communication Survey was undertaken by Health and Development Africa (HDA) that investigates the key risk factors and drivers of the epidemic in each of the provinces in South Africa and the impact of different communication interventions. This analysis is to be used to support provinces in developing strategic communication interventions that are aligned to addressing the drivers of the epidemic in each province. Download the report

Research Report: National AIDS Communication Programmes, HIV Prevention Behaviour, and HIV Infections Averted in South Africa.
Date published: 2005
Authors: JHHESA

Research Report: Talking about AIDS in an informal settlement - Experiences from Orange Farm, Gauteng
Date published: 2008
Authors: Warren Parker and Helen Hajiyiannis

Research Report: Concurrent sexual partnerships amongst young adults in South Africa. Challenges for HIV prevention Communication
Date published: 2007
Authors: Warren Parker, Benjamin Makhubele, Pumla Ntlabati and Cathy Connolly

Research Report: Playing Safe. A qualitative exploration into the health and wellbeing of South African football players
Date published: 2008
Authors: JHHESA

 

research