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Introduction.

Human rights violations, discrimination and homophobia in Kenya; The experience of a HIV positive Kenyan sex worker and the work of a community-based support By John Mathenge. Introduction. HIV/AIDS has caused over 25 million deaths with 70% in sub-Sahara Africa.

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Introduction.

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  1. Human rights violations, discrimination and homophobia in Kenya; The experience of a HIV positive Kenyan sex worker and the work of a community-based support By John Mathenge.

  2. Introduction. • HIV/AIDS has caused over 25 million deaths with 70% in sub-Sahara Africa. • The role of most at risk populations (MARPS) is coming to the forefront in HIV prevention. • MARPS in Kenya include; Men who have Sex with Men, Sex Workers, Fishermen, Truck drivers, Prisoners and Security personnel. • MSM account for 15% of new HIV infections in Kenya according to a study Done in 2008 (modes of transmission study)

  3. Challenges facing MSM in accessing HIV prevention in Kenya. • Being gay is illegal and punishable by imprisonment hence gay people cant come out in the open. • Being gay is culturally unacceptable and stigmatised by the Kenyan society. Cases of physical attacks on gay men have been reported. • Stigma from health care providers is also rampant. • Strong religions inclinations among Kenyans also stigmatises gay people. • Few HIV prevention programs target gays and none is exclusive for gay people. • Gay people have little information on risks of multiple partners and need for STI treatment e.g through IEC or regular media.

  4. Intervention • Estimates show that between 13-45% of MSM IN Kenya are HIV positive. • NASCOP has recognised the role of MSM in HIV transmission and has started intervention activities. • A few clinics offer gay friendly HIV prevention services. Most are research clinics. • HOYMAS started in 2009 to address the above scenario. • HOYMAS has about 250 members and 170 are HIV positive, 270 workers • ,10peer leaders to provide information on dangers of oral sex, proper and consistent condom use, reduction in substance abuse and reducing number of partners. • Gives moral support and encouragement to those HIV positive. • Works with other organisations to try and address the legal challenges.

  5. Conclusion • Huge gap between need and access to HIV prevention among gays in Kenya. • Legal obstacles need to be overcome with time. • Socio-cultural acceptability remains a challenge. • More gay friendly interventions needed. • There are some in Kenya but more is needed.

  6. Acknowledgement • NASCOP • SWOP • CDC

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