Using already established spaces to promote awareness on risk reduction; linking microbicides uptake with anti-HIV practices among MSM, TG and IDU in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania from 2010-2011

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Dr. Emmanuel Kandusi, Mr. Julius Kyaruzi and Thomas Muyunga
BACKGROUND:  New prevention technologies are part of comprehensive HIV prevention. The bifocal nature of the epidemic at national and in key affected populations calls for appropriate strategies. This paper highlights the relevance of involvement of expert MSM, TG and IDU in eradicating HIV.
METHODS: CHRP has a resource centre in major divisions of Dar-es-Salaam targeting over 500 MSM, 300 IDU and 250 TG. The major sites are in Kinondoni, Mwananyamala, Hannanasif, Kijitonyama, Ndugumbi, Mwenge and Magomeni. The resource centre is run by coordinators. The centre has 13 community field officers who empower IDUs to benefit from the needle/syringe cleaning activities and pick lubricants as well as condoms. This was used as opportunity to introduce literature and information on microbicides.
RESULTS: 2326 beneficiaries accessed appropriate services addressing their needs. Brochures on needle/syringe exchange, prostate cancer, microbicides, risks of flush-blood, malaria, AIDS and TB were provided in local languages. 3 major life planning skills seminars were also used to design and test a five year strategic plan targeting MSM, TG and IDU. Through planned outreach services it was possible to conduct awareness drives, VCT services, provided required SRH commodities, responded to needs, engaged health workers at facilities to receive referred clients and respond to psycho-social needs.
CONCLUSION: Established safe spaces are learning and re-learning points for most at risk populations, it makes them demand services and engage in health preserving practices.
RECOMMENDATION: New prevention technologies uptake for communities in need should be led by awareness raising sessions.




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