Women sexual empowerment: adoption of female-controlled preventive measures against transmission of HIV infection

Abstract

Salaam, was undertaken during June and July 2000. It sought to establish their perception of the female condom and its role in the struggle for women sexual empowerment. Ability to negotiate safer sex was considered as a proxy for women sexual empowerment, Only 7% ~fthem were most able to negotiate. The salary of barmaids ranged from Tanzanian Shillings 4,000 to 50,000 per month, and most barmaids had dependants. Low income and increasing number of dependants among barmaids whom are of low level of education, were associated with involvement in multiple sexual relations and became unable to negotiate safer sex. Having multiple sexual relationships was a survival strategy among barmaids. In effect their employment did not improve their economic status but rather it exposed them to risks ofHN infection, STDs and unwanted pregnancies. Though the barmaids realized the possibility for their self-protection, male dominance in the sexual relationships stood as an obstacle for barmaids' efforts against HN infection STDs and unwanted pregnancies, as most of their sexual partners were not in favour of using condoms. Not many barmaids could forego the monetary gains as a result of insisting on condom use. Barmaids perceived the female condom as device meant to empower them sexually but were concerned with its price and the fact that it was not widely available.

vu

Multiple approaches for addressing the economic and social deprivation of barmaids and hence their vulnerability in order to empower them for self protection against RIV infection are recommended . •