External Evaluation of the Southern African Regional Social and Behavior Change Communication Program, as Implemented in Zimbabwe (Briefing)

Abstract

The Southern African Regional Social and Behaviour Change Communication Program, funded by the British Department for International Development (DfID), aimed to reduce HIV infection by increasing health awareness and by facilitating social and behavioural change through the use of both mass media and community-based activities. The regional programme implemented its programmes in Zimbabwe through two local partners, Action Institute for Environment, Health and Development (IEHDC) and Southern Africa HIV and AIDS Information Dissemination Service (SAfAIDS). Action IEHDC implemented several communication activities, including the OneLove campaign, launched in July 2009, focusing on the dangers of Multiple and Concurrent Partnerships (MCPs); Action for life launched in 2007; and Action Pals, launched in 2005, aimed at younger audiences aged 10 to 16 years. Both Action and SAfAIDS exposures were positively associated with building community and individual skills to deal with HIV and AIDS. Among the full sample, condom usage in stable relationships was low, at 25%, with more exposed participants less likely to report condom usage. However condom usage in casual relationships was relatively high, at 70%, with people exposed to both Action and SAfAIDS more likely to report condom usage. There were positive associations among people exposed to SAfAIDS and Action interventions on communication about sex in relationships, testing for HIV with a partner and the knowledge that HIV could be transmitted even if one was on ARVs. There was definite impact among respondents exposed to Action exposures who reported lower odds of engaging in intergenerational sex