Mid - Term Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding HIV/AIDS among Road Construction Workers in Kwale County, Kenya

Abstract

Knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) about HIV/ AIDS form a foundation upon which interventions against the disease can be anchored. Migration for socio-economic purposes as well as availability of readily available and disposable income especially for low cadre workers pre-disposes them to risky sexual behavior, with resultant increased risk of HIV infection. Construction workers are classified as key vulnerable populations to HIV infection because of their mobile nature, lack of adequate information and other socio-economic and cultural factors. The objective of the study was to assess HIV/AIDS Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) among construction workers, at mid - term period of a HIV program being implemented in Kwale County, along the Kenyan Coast. The study used a cross-sectional descriptive survey design, which used a quantitative method. The participants were forty (40) construction workers, who were randomly chosen from five (5) consortium companies, located in Kwale County of the Kenyan Coast. Forty (40) self-administered individual interviews were conducted. The study tool was an in-depth questionnaire. Quantitative data was processed using a web-based online platform (JIBUSASA) into statistical tables, which were processed further into charts and text. The mid-term KAP findings indicate an increase in knowledge levels, and positive change of attitudes and practices regarding HIV/AIDS amongst the construction workers. It can be concluded from the study that prevention, awareness and supportive interventions can yield positive changes towards mitigating the negative effects of the disease, along its elimination continuum.