An exploration of the work of behaviour change facilitators in Matabeleland South Province, Zimbabwe: knowledge barriers and enabling factors

[摘要] Evidence suggests that Zimbabwe has made substantial gains in addressing HIV and AIDS. Since exposure to Behaviour Change Programmes displays some correlation with this trend it has been suggested that that these programmes have contributed to the HIV prevalence decline in Zimbabwe. Policy development in line with this has been the deployment ofcommunity-based behaviour change facilitators (BCFs) in communities to assist in HIV prevention. BCFs mobilise their communities and conduct home visits using interpersonal communication to discuss HIV, sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and gender-based violence (GBV) prevention services. While BCFs are part of the group of community volunteers, there is no knowledge or previous research that has focused on BCFs and theirrealities.This study explored the personal experiences and narratives of BCFs in Matabeleland South, Gwanda District. Along with this, the influence of BCFs in contributing to HIV prevention efforts was documented. The aim of the study was therefore to contribute knowledge on BCFs covering their work, their personal experiences and their narratives, especially given their motivation in continuing to volunteer in spite of possible burnout and the perception that volunteer work is unrewarding. The study employed a qualitative research approach as the focus was on documentation, and exploration to discover deeper meanings and experiences including perceptions and challenges faced by BCFs. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) with BCFs and district officers that coordinate their work. The main findings of the study indicate that BCFs are active and engaging people on HIV, SRH and GBV prevention issues thereby creating demand for health services. BCFs are community-based people that work within their communities and are motivated by the desire to reduce the burden of health problems in their communities. Their knowledge levels on the programme and key thematic areas are good and this is in line with the secondary school level of education that most BCFs have. Positive perceptions and attitudeswere exhibited through BCFs' experiences. These experiences exhibited a commitment in BCFs to serve their communities. BCFs face quite a number of challenges that can make their work difficult to carry out but have remained motivated regardless. A well designed programme that includes all the resources required by BCFs to carry out their work effectively is one of the main recommendations made.

[发布机构] University of the Free State