Socio-Cultural Norms and Acceptability of HIV/AIDS Prevention Strategies in the Simanjiro District of Tanzania

Abstract

Tanzania is home to 32 million people of whom an estimated 200,000 are Maasai. The Maasai are a proud and tenacious people that have clung tightly to their distinctive culture as the world has evolved around them. Their survival now comes into question as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/ Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic rav­ages the country. This study seeks to identify HIV prevention strategies that are compatible within the Maasai cultural con­ text as a method to help bridge the HIV/AIDS knowledge and behavior change gap. Key elements include: involvement of influential key figures, a comprehensive and highly interactive HIV prevention program focused on making current behav­iors less risky, and promoting a formal education for Maasai youth. These elements have the ability to influence healthier behaviors in a manner that allows the Maasai to preserve their unique culture.