| dc.description.abstract | Since the AIDS virus was discovered two decades ago, it has claimed over 18 million
lives globally, over 50% (or 10 million) of these deaths have occurred in sub-Sahara
Africa. Available data show that women are at a greater risk of HIV infection. This
situation has been aggravated by the high poverty levels of the people that has led to
lack of basic amenities like food, water, sanitation services and access to education and
health services.
The problems faced by women clearly indicate a degree of power disparities
between women and men. This imbalance is in favour of men. This study reveals that
women face socio-cultural, economic, political and legal obstacles, in addition to
heightened biological vulnerability. These obstacles lead to differential HIV infection
rates. Consequently, over 50% of HIV infected individuals are women. In Kenya,
where poverty and unemployment levels are high, many women resort to commercial
sex work as an alternative to economic survival. Unfortunately, these women (and
most of other women) do not have the power to decide whether to use protective
devices thus rendering them extremely vulnerable to infection.
This study also explores in detail the non-biological factors that help to maintain
the gender power imbalances. Various recommendations are made to help reduce
these imbalances. Specifically, any programmes that address HIV/AIDS and gender
differences in society should focus on a supportive and enabling environment,
facilitating access to information and services, research, changing the way we think,
sensitizing and mobilizing men, combating discrimination and developing gendersensitive
care and support. | en |
