Research Article
Towards and Twofold: Efficacy of HIV Intervention Strategies That Mitigate Challenges for Women in an Urban Informal Settlement, Kenya
Sarah Wanjiru
,
Geoffrey Wango*,
Pacificah Okemwa
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
1-13
Received:
28 November 2025
Accepted:
23 December 2025
Published:
19 January 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20261401.11
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Views:
Abstract: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) continue to devastate the world, particularly women in middle and low-income countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This is principally because it is twofold, that is, gender and context, and thus the infection patterns differ across the gender divide because of biology, physiology, socially constructed gender norms, roles, unequal power relations and social-economic inequalities. The objective of the study was to investigate the efficacy of intervention strategies mitigating the challenges faced by women living with HIV and AIDS in Majengo informal urban settlements in Nyeri County. The study used the descriptive survey design that utilised qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data from participants was collected using the snowballing method and involved in-depth interviews, structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. The study adopted the social systems theory to incorporate consciousness and phenomenology in the construction of society, such as social-economic factors that significantly influence sexual behaviour. The study assessed knowledge and use of preventive measures against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among infected women and identified risky practices and appropriate strategies for curbing the spread of the virus. The inquiry established that the success of the HIV and AIDS intervention strategies depends largely on context-specific challenges facing various populations, such as women living with HIV and AIDS in informal urban settlements. It recommends adoption of HIV and AIDS intervention strategies that mitigate gender and context-specific challenges in informal settlements, including improved infrastructure and enhanced health.
Abstract: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) continue to devastate the world, particularly women in middle and low-income countries, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. This is principally because it is twofold, that is, gender and context, and thus the infection patterns differ across the gender divide because of ...
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Research Article
Evaluation of the ‘School for Husbands’ Strategy:
A Qualitative Assessment 12 Years After Implementation in the Koumpentoum Health District, Senegal
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
14-20
Received:
25 November 2025
Accepted:
23 December 2025
Published:
19 January 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sjph.20261401.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Introduction: Women's lack of decision-making autonomy is a concern for their access to sexual and reproductive health services. To combat maternal morbidity and mortality, Senegal launched the husbands' school strategy in 2012, with the aim of improving men's involvement. The objective is to assess the perception of the husbands' school among the communities of Koumpentoum (one of the first districts to enrol). Methods: This is a qualitative study. In-depth individual interviews were conducted with healthcare providers (12), community health workers (2) and beneficiaries (men (8) and women (8)). A purposive sampling method was used. The study included people who had been living in the district for at least one year and were involved in the strategy. A thematic analysis was performed using Nvivo 12 software. Results: The strategy is well recognised and adopted by the community because of its preventive and participatory nature in promoting family well-being. The degree of involvement of men was considered sufficient. The recruitment of peer husbands based on the exemplary behaviour of men in their households had created a positive emulation among other men. According to service providers, results were noted in terms of an increase in the fre ntion of reproductive health services and a decrease in cases of husbands opposing their wives' access to health services. Conclusion: The husband school strategy is a strategy that engages positive masculinity and improves access to sexual and reproductive health services. Policy makers could strengthen this strategy and scale it up.
Abstract: Introduction: Women's lack of decision-making autonomy is a concern for their access to sexual and reproductive health services. To combat maternal morbidity and mortality, Senegal launched the husbands' school strategy in 2012, with the aim of improving men's involvement. The objective is to assess the perception of the husbands' school among the ...
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