Strengthening HIV-related interventions in Zambia
The project aim is to conduct research to generate knowledge on how different population groups respond in terms of change in risk taking, and on effective preventive HIV interventions with particular focus on trust and equity questions.
Main content
Full project title: Strengthening HIV-related interventions in Zambia: co-operation in research and institution capacity building
Funding: NUFU
Coordinator: Knut Fylkesnes
Partner: University of Zambia
Period: 2007-2012
Synopsis
HIV epidemics in many countries in sub-Saharan Africa seriously impair productivity and are both a major cause and consequence of poverty. Despite HIV preventive efforts the past 20 years, there are still few examples of declining epidemics. About 16% of men and women aged 15-49 years are infected in Zambia. There are evidence that the HIV prevalence in Zambia has begun to decline due to behavioural changes. Striking social and geographical inequalities in these changes have been observed, however, and during 10 years the burden of HIV infection shifted from higher to lower educated groups.
The project builds upon achievements during the first round of NUFU funding (2002-2006). The aim is to conduct research to generate knowledge on how different population groups respond in terms of change in risk taking, and on effective preventive HIV interventions with particular focus on trust and equity questions. Furthermore, the impact of HIV on mortality, fertility and mental distress will also be investigated. Finally, the project aims at training selected persons from partner institutions at the level of PhD and Master in order to substantially strengthen local capacities in research and intervention programming.
