Challenges facing people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) in Botswana: Implications for behavioural risk reduction intervention

This paper is based on a study carried out between October 2006 and April 2007 with People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) who are currently in support groups based in the Gaborone, Gabane and Gaphatshwa areas of Botswana. The research project was conducted by the University of Botswana research team as part of the SAHARA collaborative study on PLWHA. Using a qualitative approach, the study explored challenges that PLWHA face and identified appropriate intervention strategies. Six focus group discussions (FGDs) were organised with a total of 60 PLWHA, while 17 in-depth interviews were conducted with HIV and AIDS service providers including doctors, nurses and PLWHA support group managers. Challenges such as stigma and discrimination, denial and fear of disclosure, and risky sexual behaviors were found to be common. Underlying these challenges were stigmatising behaviours, primarily associated with fear of HIV rather than with the route of the infection. The research results will be useful for developing interventions to reduce fear and stigma among PLWHA.