The surge in new HIV infections among women and fishermen residing in the vicinity of Lake Victoria can be attributed, in part, to engaging in sexual activities in exchange for fish….CONTINUE READING
A significant contributing factor to the escalating number of HIV infections in Migori County is the prevalent practice of bartering sex for fish on the county’s beaches.
Located at Nduru beach, Kisumu, Kenya, Paul Obiero, who oversees CIHEB’s fisher folk program in Migori County, underscored the frequency of this practice and its potential threat to the well-being of fisher folk in terms of HIV/AIDS.
Obiero asserted that some women engage in sexual relations with fishermen not out of personal desire but as a means to acquire fish.
He highlighted ongoing awareness campaigns along the beaches that have led to a decrease in instances of transactional sex for fish due to the implementation of empowerment programs.
Obiero underscored the importance of motivating fishermen to adopt available preventive measures, as a significant proportion of them remain vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.
Caroline Odera, Deputy HIV/AIDS Control Coordinator for Migori County, emphasized the collaborative efforts of the Department of Health and its partners in striving to reduce HIV infections within the fishing community.
Odera cautioned individuals at risk about the persistent high threat of HIV transmission within the fisher folk community, despite the concerted efforts being made.
