The effect of behavior change initiatives on HIV prevalence in Juba, Central Equatoria State. A cross-sectional study.

Victoria Stephen Majur  Achut; Dr. Dennis Mubiru; Mohammed Ssedangi; Salongo Kateregga

doi:10.70659/gjhib.v1i11.1

Auteurs

Victoria Stephen Majur Achut Team University, Kampala.
Dr. Dennis Mubiru Team University, Kampala.
Mohammed Ssedangi Team University, Kampala.
Salongo Kateregga Team University, Kampala.

DOI :

https://doi.org/10.70659/gjhib.v1i11.1

Mots-clés :

Effects of behavior change initiative, HIV prevalence, Juba

Résumé

Background.

The health system in South Sudan faces numerous challenges, exacerbated by protracted conflicts that hinder effective healthcare delivery. Despite the adverse conditions, there are opportunities for strengthening health systems, which are crucial for enhancing HIV prevention services. This study determined the effect of behavior change initiatives on HIV prevalence in Juba, Central Equatoria State.

Methodology.

A cross-sectional study design was employed, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Data were collected through surveys and interviews with 142 participants, including healthcare providers and residents of Juba. Statistical analyses were conducted using regression models and correlation matrices to evaluate the impact of the HIV prevention strategies. The study was conducted in Juba, the largest city and capital of Central Equatorial State, South Sudan, an area with diverse demographics and significant HIV/AIDS challenges.

Results.

(37%) of the participants identified as Catholic, higher frequency of singles (45%), 90.9% agreed that sex education programs (example ABCD strategies) are carried out by government and NGOs in Juba, 91.6% of respondents approved that the media for disseminating information on HIV/AIDS are suitable to the audience, 68.2% of respondents agreed that sex education programs (ABCD) and other programs related to HIV target schools and tertiary institutions in the Juba, 97.7% of respondents agreed that abstinence from sex is a means for prevention of HIV/AIDS in their community.

Conclusion.

It was noted from the analysis that when the current behavior trend is reversed, then chances of reducing HIV/AIDS prevalence are most likely going to increase and vice versa.

Recommendation.

Lack of participation of intended beneficiaries in decision making has limited the would be impact of the activity’s HIV/AIDS service providers, therefore these studies recommends a participatory approach to behavior change strategies in order for reduction in HIV/AIDS prevalence.

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