Challengers of HIV/Aids - A Minor Field Study about HIV/Aids prevention in Kabale, Uganda

Abstract: The aim of my case study was to examine and describe the methods of HIV/Aids prevention work that are used in Kabale district, southwestern Uganda. I will in this study discuss the importance of peer monitoring, education and reducing stigma to decrease the number of HIV infected people. I will use the theory of Pierre Bourdieu about the social, cultural and economic capital to try to give an explanation and a deeper understanding of why and how the prevention work is organized on a local basis. I have used a qualitative method by interviewing HIV counselors and volunteers (peer educators) about their preventive work and also a quantitative method by handing out questioners about HIV/Aids prevention knowledge amongst primary and secondary pupils in Kabale. I have come to the conclusion that a combination of social, cultural and economic capital can well be used in the analysis of my collected material as to why and how the preventive work with HIV/Aids is organized in this area. I have also found that working with empowerment, reducing stigma and enhance the role of HIV infected people in the society is much important in the challenging work with preventing the spreading of HIV. Key words: HIV/Aids prevention, Social capital, Peer educators, Stigma, Community mobilization