Although it is well acknowledged that men and boys play vital roles in shaping the future of HIV prevention, there are few efforts to work with young men directly as equal partners. Until recently, young men have been neglected in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) and HIV/AIDS prevention work in East and Southern Africa.
With the aim to explore the relations between HIV/AIDS, masculinity and sexuality among young men and to suggest new approach to stop the epidemic in East and Southern Africa, the researcher used YMEP (Young Men as Equal Partners) programme as case study through literature review, semi-structured interviews, observations and group discussions with programme officers, various stakeholders and beneficiaries in the YMEP programme.
The research examines the factors around the construction of masculinity in relation to sexuality, analyzes what makes young men vulnerable to HIV infection and transmission and discusses how to work with young men towards changing behaviours, transforming masculinity, improving the relationship and sexual health of both young men and women. The research confirms the transformation of notions of masculinity is crucial to change attitudes and behaviours of young men.
Programmes should address positive and right-based sexuality education instead of negative approaches to only address the diseases and risks. The role models from young men should be encouraged to influence peers in their behaviours and community in changing norms. Women should be included rather than being left out in the approach of male involvement in effective HIV/AIDS prevention.
Conflict of Interest: No conflicts of interests
Financial Support/Funding: iIndependent research for academic purpose, with no fundings from any sources.
The 19th WAS World Congress for Sexual Health - Sexual Health & Rights: A Global Challenge Göteborg (Sweden) - June 21 – 25, 2009
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