Examining the Roles of Faith-Based Organisations in HIV/AIDS Prevention, Care and Support in Uganda

Abstract

This study examines the roles of faith-based organisations in HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and support in Uganda. A descriptive cross-sectional study was undertaken based on quantitative and qualitative research designs. The key informant interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data. Findings revealed that ACET uses a comprehensive multi-sectoral approach in providing a wide range of HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and support services; by tackling other factors surrounding the individual other than the individual alone. As far as prevention is concerned, the emphasis, of the organization, is on premarital abstinence and marital fidelity, hence targeting the youth and the married. Information on condom use and partnerships with organizations that provide condoms are ways in which ACET helps those in need of them. Based on these observations, the study calls for ACET to organize and educate all the community leaders on the services rendered by the organization so that they can know about the services provided by them. This will help all victims and non-victims of HIV/AIDS to take advantage of such services. This should be done by local/ community leaders, elders, and religious leaders. Mass sensitization strategies need to be improved to increase the levels of awareness of the availability and relevance of faith-based organizations. To achieve this, there is a need to use radios and community sensitization meetings. Keywords: ACET, Care and support, Community leaders, FBOs, HIV/AIDs