Exploring an African church's strategies for fosteriong HIV/AIDS awareness, prevention and care

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the strategies used in initiating mvIAIDS awareness, prevention and care in Africa Inland Church of Kenya. Data were collected through interviews conducted both with the denominational leaders of AlC-AIDS Division and participants working in local AlC-AIDS programs. Documents and archives related to AlC-AIDS program as well were analyzed The study revealed AlC of Kenya had various operational strategies in creating AIDS awareness and prevention among its members, some of which were initiated by individuals who ran AIDS programs within the AlC context before the AlC-AIDS Division was structured This awareness was created especially through education of both mv negative and mv positive people. Prevention among mv negative people was accomplished through education in schools; application of the church's AIDS policy, and preventive policies applied in AlC health facilities. People living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) received care in hospitals through the provision of free medication, inexpensive antiretroviral drugs and home-based care. The church also operated a feeding program for AIDS orphans.