| dc.description.abstract | This study was conducted in Lukuba Island, the study aimed at investigating the socio-cultural factors and challenges influencing condom use among the fishing communities in Lukuba Island in Mara region, Tanzania. Specifically the study targeted at addressing four objectives namely: to understand meanings people subscribe to condoms (especially male condoms) in sexual relationship and HIV/AIDS prevention, to investigate the social and cultural factors hindering condom use in fishing communities, to identify challenges faced in promoting condom use in fishing communities and to suggest contextually appropriate approaches for strengthening condom use among the fishing communities. This study collected data from both primary and secondary sources. In doing this, 138 respondents were involved. A purposive sampling technique was used to select the respondents across all residences in the study area. Data collected included: both Qualitative and Quantitative data. Qualitative data was manually analyzed basing on the themes and contents, whereas, quantitative data were analyzed with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences Research (SPSS) computer programme. Under quantitative analysis, descriptive data analysis was done which included running: the frequencies, cross-tabulation and Chi-squire testing. This study is informed by two theories; ecological health model and Social learning theories. Results from the study revealed that Lukuba dwellers are aware of the presence of HIV/AIDS and STIs and they are aware of condom use as one of the ways of protecting them from HIV infections. Varieties of condoms were found being sold on the Island. However, condom use was found to be low and inconsistent among the Island dwellers. This study identified factors for this low use and inconsistence of condoms on the Island. Besides, it was found that the Island received few and sometimes no intervention in a year from either responsible government departments or non government HIV/AIDS agencies. In view of the above findings, the study had the following to recommend: frequently HIV/ADS controlling intervention should be directed to fishing communities as it is done to other parts in the region. The study found out that STIs is on increase, in this regard, there is a need to introduce HIV/AIDS and STIs prevention promotions by using mobile clinics and provision of VCT services to the Island. However, women living on this Island also need to be empowered both socially and economically in order to have negotiation capabilities in sex relations and take legal action in case they are sexually abused. Finally, the distribution of ARVs to Lukuba residents who are living with HIV, especially those whose health has been deteriorated by AIDS is needed since there is no such service which is freely provided to the Island like in other parts of the country. | en_US |
