Problem

Research indicates that 10,000 of the estimated 11,000 people living with HIV in Bolivia are unaware of their HIV/AIDS status, and infection rates are increasing. While the most recent national census states that 65% of the population self-reports as “indigenous,” the Bolivian Government has no HIV/AIDS prevention programs to respond to the needs of indigenous peoples. In most indigenous communities, women and men lack access to culturally-relevant information in indigenous languages on HIV/AIDS prevention.

The Gift

FCI conducted qualitative research on HIV/AIDS prevention efforts among indigenous people in Bolivia’s lowland region. The findings of this study highlighted the need for prevention strategies that respond to the cultural priorities and values of these indigenous groups. In January 2006, FCI began a project to address the issues of HIV/AIDS prevention, transmission and stigmatization at the community level in the Department of Pando, which borders Brazil and Peru. The project promotes a supportive policy environment on HIV/AIDS for vulnerable communities, and involves indigenous networks and leaders in policy-development and decision-making at the local and national levels. $400 will support a full day training and discussion session on HIV transmission and prevention for 30 young indigenous women in Northern Pando, Bolivia.