The role of faith-based organisations in HIV/AIDS prevention, care and support in Uganda: A case study of Kamwokya Christian Caring Community (KCCC)

Abstract

The now over two decades of the existence of the HIV/AIDS pandemic have brought into play a number of actors undertaking numerous interventions to combat its effect. Among the actors have been faith based organizations, local and international, big and small, who have been working patiently, compassionately, and effectively for years in HIV/AIDS prevention, care and support. To some players in the field of HIV/AIDS, FBOs have done more harm than good, and criticisms over their work have for years overshadowed their potential and achievements. This study set out to examine the role of FBOs in HIV/AIDS prevention, care and support taking a case study of Kamwokya Christian Caring Community (KCCC).

A descriptive cross sectional study was undertaken based on quantitative and qualitative research designs; Various research methods and tools for data collection were used respectively; exit interviews with semi-structured questionnaires, key informant interviews with interview guides; focus group discussions with the help of focus group guide; and observation with an observation checklist; internet surfing; and document analysis.

Study findings revealed that KCCC uses a comprehensive multi-sectoral approach in proving a wide range of HIV/AIDS prevention, care and support services; by tackling other factors surrounding the individual other than the individual alone.

As far as prevention is concerned, emphasis is on premarital abstinence and marital fidelity hence targeting the youth and the married. Information on condoms and partnerships with organizations that provide condoms are ways in which KCCC helps those in need of them.

There is more emphasis on primary prevention- prevention before acquiring the HIV virus; and care and support to people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWAs) with little emphasis on secondary prevention-prevention after acquiring the HIV virus. All Services are utilised with ease by people from various denominations and are easily accessible to all in terms of distance, cost, and availability.

Conclusions were thus drawn; that KCCC is specialising in what they can do best i.e. the AB strategy, just like any other organisation, and even if they had not succeeded in their AB strategy, they have other areas other than prevention where they have triumphed exceedingly well- specifically in care and support.

Various recommendations were made many players in the field of HIV/AIDS response, and among them is the need for KCCC to established links with organizations in both the health sector, as well as others outside the health sector like the National Agricultural Advisory services (NAADS), prosperity for all programs among others, to help cover the gaps.