11th International AIDS Conference Vancouver, British Columbia — July 7-12, 1996

Int Conf AIDS 1996 Jul 7-12; 11:35 (abstract no. LB.D.6066)
Kamau MM, Bwayo JJ, Ngugi EN, Ndinya-Achola JO; Department of Human Pathology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.

ISSUE: Single mothers in Kenya are economically unstable. The men responsible for the pregnancy disappear with no guilt of what they have done. This makes the women therefore increasingly at higher risk than men who provide money and goods in exchange for sex.

PROJECT: During a competition for Kenyan secretaries last year, single mothers in the group were asked to give their names and addresses. They were then sent forms to fill to assess their Knowledge, Attitude, Behavior and Practice (KABP) on HIV/AIDS and to identify hindering of behavior change to HIV/AIDS and hence come up with effective behavioral models that will help participants enhance safer sex practices.

RESULTS: All single mothers who participated reported that what they earn is not enough for them and their children. They have had advances from rich older men who have promised financial support in place of a "good time". There were incidences of having unprotected sex and even getting unwanted pregnancies. Sexual violence was reported to an extent of losing a job if one does not give in. Very few single mothers carry condoms with them even though they know their use.

LESSONS LEARNED: Single mothers and office secretaries have evidently a role to play in the prevention of HIV/AIDS. Integral sexual education and services that can help, distribution of high quality condoms and monogamous relationships will promote safer sex.

960707
LBD6066

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