Inclusion of dry sex and polygyny in HIV and AIDS behavior change programmes: Case studies from selected NGO’s in the Zambezi region, Namibia
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Date
2022
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University of Namibia
Abstract
This study explored the cultural practices of dry sex and polygyny that could potentially perpetuate HIV. The study further enquired whether the two cultural practices are included in HIV and AIDS behaviour change programmes. Dry sex refers to a phenomenon where women insert herbs into the vagina to reduce vaginal lubrication during sexual intercourse. The practice is associated with tearing and cuts of the vaginal wall and glans of the penis, and this heightens the risk of contracting HIV. Polygyny refers to a practice where one man is married to more than one wife at the same time. Such marriages are an institutionalised form of concurrent sexual partnerships which can also increase the spread of HIV by creating more connected sexual networks.
The objective was to explore dry sex and polygyny that might promote the spread of HIV among women, as well as assessing HIV and AIDS behaviour change programmes adopted culturally appropriate and sensitive prevention strategies.
A focused ethnography method which consisted of in-depth, semi-structured interviews and focused observations with field notes was employed. In total, 33 participants from non-governmental organisations, traditional leaders, traditional healers, Life Skills teachers, instructors of Sikenge (girl child initiation instructors), men, women, youth and staff members from Ministry of Health and Social Services and the Zambezi Regional Council that are responsible for HIV and AIDS Behaviour Change Programmes were interviewed. The research sites were in Windhoek, Kabbe and Katima Mulilo.
The study employed Vygotsky Social Constructivist Theory which views human development as a socially mediated process in which individual acquire their cultural values, beliefs and problem-solving strategies through interactions with other members of iii society. Hence, practices such as polygyny and dry sex are learned through social interaction. Connell’s Theory of gender and power was also employed to illustrate sexual inequality, gender and power imbalance perpetuate women’s vulnerability to HIV.
The findings indicate that the cultural practices of dry sex and polygyny were commonly practised in Kabbe and Katima Mulilo. Despite the risk of HIV associated with these cultural practices, behaviour change programmes had responded differently to address them. For example, none of the interventions had targeted the practice of polygyny directly. Similarly, no targeted interventions had been devised to address dry sex; hence, the practice persisted. This study, concludes that it is imperative to devise HIV interventions that are culturally appropriate and sensitive. Cultural practices such as dry sex and polygyny should be included in HIV and AIDS behaviour change programmes.
Description
A dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirement of the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Sociology)