Building the capacity of faith-based organizations to promote mutual monogamy in South Africa

Authors

Waimar Tun, Population Council
Nathi Sohaba
Unathi Malinzi
Matthew Nqono
Osborne Mzilikazi
Bonisiwa Mgujulwa
Moses Madywabe
Mbulelo Fatyeni
Christine Fontecchio

Document Type

Brief

Publication Date

2007

Abstract

In South Africa, where sex partnerships outside primary relationships are common even among church members, HIV-prevention programs focusing on mutual monogamy (MM) are needed. Church leaders, highly regarded by the community, may be effective in reaching congregation members with HIV-prevention messages. However, implementing programs that promote faithfulness pose several challenges. In response to a lack of research on effective strategies to promote MM, the Horizons Program, in partnership with the Eastern Cape Provincial Council of Churches and the South African Council of Churches, piloted an intervention to promote MM. A curriculum was developed covering topics including HIV transmission, personal relationships, gender dynamics, and couple communication. A collaborative effort between Horizons/Population Council, the South African Council of Churches, and the Eastern Cape Provincial Council of Churches led to the implementation of sermons and workshops promoting MM among church members. As noted in this brief, results indicate positive changes in awareness of MM as an HIV-prevention strategy and a growing recognition of the role of MM in creating a healthy family life.

Recommended Citation

Tun, Waimar, Nathi Sohaba, Unathi Malinzi, Bp. Matthew Nqono, Pstr. Osborne Mzilikazi, Pstr. Bonisiwa Mgujulwa, Rev. Moses Madywabe, Mbulelo Fatyeni, and Christine Fontecchio. 2007. "Building the capacity of faith-based organizations to promote mutual monogamy in South Africa," Horizons Research Summary. Johannesburg: Population Council.

DOI

10.31899/hiv12.1042

Language

English

Project

Horizons Program