Abstract:
HIV/AIDS messages should be tailored to the specific contexts of the target community. Aspects such as the socio-cultural resources, communication dynamics, norms, and the value system of the target community determine the success of HIV/AIDS communication. The purpose of this study was to assess the socio-cultural appropriateness of HIV/AIDS communication among the pastoralist community in Borana, Ethiopia. Different health models and theories were reviewed to guide the study and qualitative case study design was used. Data was collected from the Borana pastoralist community in the Arero district using three different methods. Firstly, semi-structured interviews were held with cultural leaders, religious fathers, and healthcare workers. Secondly, focus-group interviews were held with male and female households, and lastly, a document analysis was conducted of the National HIV/AIDS policy of Ethiopia. Triangulation by means of the three methods ensured that reliable, valid, and credible data was collected.