Effective Partnering with the Military using film to

Effective Partnering with the Military using film to Combat Stigma and Discrimination in Malawi Mr. Dennis Chimenya Program Manager – Targeted Outreach Communications PSI/Malawi HIV Implementers Conference Kigali, Rwanda June 16 -19, 2007

Context • HIV prevalence rates higher in military (1) • Reported condom use inconsistent in Malawi Defense Force (MDF) (2) • MDF CT services offered, but low access and take up of services due to confidentiality, stigma and discrimination (2) • No specific materials on HIV/AIDS prevention, counseling and testing, and stigma and discrimination addressing military situations (Sources: 1 – UN estimates; 2 – MDF KAP survey)

PSI/Malawi and the MDF • National HIV/AIDS prevention programs through targeted and balanced health communications and condom distribution to high risk groups • Targeted Outreach Communications (TOC) to high risk groups including men in uniform, spouses and children- uses interpersonal and interactive communications to encourage adoption of risk reduction behaviors • Worked with MDF to develop “A Soldier's Life” to address high levels of stigma and discrimination, low condom use and low uptake of counseling and testing services – being used for interpersonal sessions. (FY 06 - 4, 028 MDF personnel and their families reached)

Outcome

Why Partnership worked MDF Protocols • Constant consultation with them • Sensitive to their requirements MDF Participation • • Concept development Script and Storyboard development Selection of actors and acting Pre-testing at all relevant levels MDF have a recognized HIV/AIDS structure with Program Coordinator – makes liaison easier

As told by the military…

Challenges • MDF protocols forced us to choose actors from same rank, limited acting talent • MDF personnel required substantial acting coaching • MDF personnel basic HIV/AIDS knowledge lacking - required basic HIV/AIDS education surrounding issues of prevention, stigma and discrimination

Key Recommendations • Be sensitive to military protocols and directions to ensure program acceptability and relevance • Ensure military are fully involved in all key steps of IEC and video material development • Use HIV+ military personnel where possible increases relevance

Key Recommendations cont. . . • Lobby for involvement of all levels (including senior officers) - material becomes relevant to all • Dedicate additional time and resources to actor coaching • Ensure senior hierarchy ‘buy in’ and ownership of process and outcomes • Where funding allows, implement ‘user friendly’ CT Drop In services directly for military - address issues of stigma and discrimination and confidentiality

Thank You, Any Questions? For more information, please contact: Mr. Dennis Chimenya Targeted Outreach Communications Program Manager, PSI/Malawi Email: dchimenya@psimalawi. org