Towards an AIDS Information Strategy for Zimbabwe

This survey points out the nonproductive nature of the argument that condom use among adolescents should not be promoted because this may encourage sexual activity: sexual activity and multiple partners is already prevalent among male adolescents.

Abstract

Knowledge about AIDS was surveyed in Zimbabwe before and after the national AIDS awareness campaign in mid-1987. 630 teacher-trainees were surveyed before the campaign and 4189 teacher-trainees 1532 adolescents 381 Sindebele-speaking urban adults and 795 Shona-speaking rural adults were surveyed afterward. Each subject was given a true- false test to complete with assistance if needed. Most subjects knew that HIV is fatal and incurable that condoms reduce risk. Many adults believed that HIV is transmitted by toilets cups and mosquitoes. Many did not know that HIV can be contracted from a healthy looking person. More students after the campaign thought most AIDS victims in Africa are homosexual. Teacher-trainees reported a score of 7.9 out of 10 to show their intention to reduce number of sex partners but 7.2 for their intention to use condoms. Sexual activity was reportedly much higher among teen and student males than females and sex with prostitutes was reported by 38.5% of male students and 24.7% of urban male adults. Some of the implications of this survey include the need for further education on the high risk of avoidable sexual contacts especially with prostitutes; need for more information on AIDS specifically targeted to rural areas by radio and key organizations. This survey points out the nonproductive nature of the argument that condom use among adolescents should not be promoted because this may encourage sexual activity: sexual activity and multiple partners is already prevalent among male adolescents.