ACCESSIBILITY OF HEALTH INFORMATION TO PLWHA

This study found that only some people have access to HIV/AIDS related health information. Access to HIV/AIDS related information is limited for some participants who identified language, lack of interest, alcohol abuse, time allocation as some of the barriers. Most reading materials are either written in English or Afrikaans which made it impossible for most of PLWHA to understand it. Those who understand those languages do not share it with others because of stigma.Recommendations were formulated. Problems such as the language issue need to be looked at by all stakeholders who are responsible for preparing information materials. More programmes on HIV/AIDS are needed on radios and NBC television in local languages. Stigma and discrimination need to be addressed seriously from all levels of society. This will enable PLWHA to live positively. Poverty was also identified as a barrier to living positively with HIV/AIDS. It is, therefore, recommended that specific programmes/projects need to be developed to reduce poverty among PLWHA. Approaches to enable men to participate in HIV/AIDS issues should be developed and strengthened.