Using radio programmes, road shows, concerts and theatre performances, and through training journalists, Health Poverty Action is reducing the HIV infection rate in Somaliland.
Working in collaboration with the Global Fund, the project works to:
- strengthen health systems so they can effectively carry out HIV and AIDS services
- cut transmission rates of HIV
- ensure those living with HIV and AIDS can access quality treatment and support.
To increase HIV awareness we produce an innovative radio magazine programme – Badbado, which is regularly broadcast on six radio stations.
Topics covered include antiretroviral treatment, preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV and the importance of voluntary counselling and testing. This aims to increase the uptake of key HIV/AIDS services provided by other project partners. To ensure radio programmes remain relevant, listener groups are regularly consulted for feedback.
Building on this, Health Poverty Action also produces a monthly live radio show with question and answer sessions to address specific concerns. And we run regular mobile road shows, concerts and community theatre performances, specifically targeting young people and other vulnerable groups where HIV rates are particularly high.
Finally, we train journalists in writing factually about HIV and AIDS to address taboos and misconceptions about transmission and prevention. We also hold annual media awards to recognise the achievements of these journalists.
“I want to thank Health Poverty Action for recognizing the difficult circumstances under which we report these issues. Some of us have been killed and others roughed up because of talking about HIV and AIDS. This award is very motivating because it indicates that what we are doing is not in vain.”
Yasmin – a journalist who won an award from Health Poverty Action for her article on HIV and AIDS.
The project aims to reach some of the most vulnerable people in Somaliland – including youth, sex workers, truck drivers and refugees – who might otherwise not have access to such key health information.
Radio is an effective method of communicating important health messages in Somaliland – more than 62% of the Somali population have access to a radio.
Last modified: 27/06/2011
