Using Participatory Research and Action to Address the HIV-related Vulnerabilities of Adolescent Girls in Tanzania
Resource:
The International Center for Research on Women (ICRW) and Taasisi ya Maendeleo Shirikishi Arusha (TAMASHA), in collaboration with Pact Tanzania, developed a participatory research and action project (Vitu Newala) that aimed to both understand and respond to girls’ HIV-related vulnerabilities. The project was conducted in Newala, one of the least developed and poorly resourced districts of Tanzania.
This 2011 report highlights the project's four phases of action: formative research, intervention design, peer education program, and assessment. The formative research conducted with 82 girls and more than 200 adults in their communities served as the foundation for the design of a Life Skills education program implemented through peer education. Vitu Newala addressed the powerful gender norms and social influences that make girls vulnerable to HIV using participatory methods that engaged young people as researchers, educators, and champions for change. Through community dialogues and feedback sessions, Vitu Newala stimulated conversation about girls' rights, their role in society, and how communities can better meet their needs. Moreover, the project has garnered support from girls, boys, parents and influential community members. The participatory nature of Vitu Newala provided valuable lessons about the importance of: 1) aligning project priorities with youth priorities,gi 2) establishing trust and relationships, and 3) providing vulnerable youth with extra support. This type of approach—one that meets girls where they are in their lives—offers a promising model for empowering and protecting those girls who are the most vulnerable to HIV.
(description taken from the introduction to the report)
