CONDOM USE IN KENYA - Assignment Example

Condom Use in Kenya Effective Communication on the Risks of HIV/ AIDs as a Strategy Effective communication willinvolve the use of visual aids and message farming to increase condom use. Gained-framed messages will ensure that sexually active adults in Kisumu have greater adherence to the use of condoms while having sex. Visual aids should be added to the health information brochures to ensure that the messages become effective in changing the behavior of adults towards condom use in Kisumu. Visual aids are the best means of communication that ensures there is effective, transparent, memorable, and ethical means of achieving the goals of risk communication.

The distribution of the visual aids in the brochures will involve the use of famous Kenyan Musicians. Music has been used to create awareness on condom use in adults. The use of famous musicians will attract the attention of several adults thereby leading to increased condom use awareness to several residents of Kisumu. The awareness raising will be done through road shows and vernacular radio talk shows. Vernacular Radio talk shows will be effective in reaching adults in the remote rural areas who cannot be accessed through road transport.

Importantly, local and famous musicians who understand the native language will be appropriate in delivering the message to the adults who may not be able to read and understand English and Kiswahili (national languages).The visual aids should have the information concerning right and consistent use of condoms, consequences of not using condoms, and the perceived barriers. Members of the public must lean how to use condoms correctly. Most adults normally use condoms in the first sex encounter but later ignore the usage.

In addition, women must also be made aware of their role in making decisions concerning condom use. Women must ensure that men use condoms whenever they engage in sex.RationaleThe Health Belief Model suggests that simple knowledge and awareness about HIV will not necessarily reduce risky behavior that lead to high prevalence of HIV/AIDS. Every individual must know that he or she is susceptible to the virus. In addition, individuals must learnt HIV infection is a serious health hazard, and learn the benefits of taking preventive actions.

Consequently, individuals must learn that potential barriers to taking preventive action are outweighed by potential benefits (Volk and Koopman, np).The use of local and famous musicians in delivering the message ensures that local perceptions are explained. These musicians are more familiar with the culture of Kisumu people; communication of culture bias toward condom use will be effective. In addition the visual aids will serve as a guide to the correct use of condoms and a reference point in the future.

Visual aids also have a lasting impression in the memory of the people, they are likely to remember and apply the message as delivered.The use of local radio talk shows ensures that individuals in the remote parts of Kisumu get access to information. The same local musicians should be invited to the talk shows to explain condom usage and the risks associated with unprotected sex. Works CitedVolk Jonathan & Koopman Cheryl. Factors Associated With Condom Use In Kenya: A Test Of The Health Belief Model.

California. University Of California Press. 2001. Print.