The 2004 World AIDS Day theme was “Women, girls and HIV/AIDS”.  In line with this theme, IDF carried out an awareness campaign with female military officers.

Project Context

Women are generally  more vulnerable to HIV and AIDS and often the female population has a higher prevalence rate.  Biologically women are twice more likely to become infected with HIV through unprotected intercourse than men. In many countries women are less likely to be able to negotiate condom use and are more likely to be subjected to non-consensual sex.  Women are put further at risk due to factors such as female genital mutilation, sexual harassment, violence against women and a lack of financial autonomy.

The female military learns about HIV and AIDS

Activities

IDF has carried out activities in both Bamenda and Wum including:

• Descriptive stand: An information stand provides a background on IDF and its experiences in the domain of HIV and AIDS.  This helps publicize IDF and its programs and bring it recognition.
• Information sessions to the public including presentations to the military.
• Posters and brochures: These are used as another way to raise awareness about the work IDF carries out in the area of HIV and AIDS as well as raises awareness among the population generally.
• Condom demonstrations: In order to educate people on how to use condoms correctly, IDF staff and volunteers carry out demonstrations using props.
• Public Testimonies: People living with HIV and AIDS speak publically about the disease and positive living as well as the impact IDF and its programs have had on their lives.
• Home Visits: Community volunteers and Community Relay Agents visit the homes of some of the most poor people living with HIV and AIDS and provide counseling support and cleaning services.

Ensuring that the military is aware about

After the presentation, the female military participated in the parade through Bamenda.  This walk was an opportunity for the military to show the public that the military was combating HIV and AIDS.  After the parade there was also a volleyball match.

Results and Impacts

The participants indicated that they learned a lot about HIV and AIDS.  The military has a large presence in Bamenda and it was important for it to show that it supports the fight against HIV and AIDS.

IDF staff talks with the military about HIV

Difficulties Faced

• It was difficult to get time on the radio to discuss HIV and AIDS.

Volleyball game with the military in Bamenda to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS

Lessons Learned

• The female military is interested and determined to reduce the rate of HIV and AIDS in the north west province.
• Despite the discussion on HIV and AIDS, less than 10 of the participants identified herself as someone who uses a condom during intercourse.

Way Forward/Recommendations

• Further work with military will continue to enhance their awareness