The Impact Of Hiv/Aids On Livelihoods Of Rural Women In Tanzania: A Case Study Of Ludewa District

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out in Ludewa District. The objective of the study was to assess the impact of HIV/AIDS on livelihood of Rural Women in Tanzania.

A descriptive study with cross-sectional followed by non-experimental research was used in order to assess the impact of the HIV/AIDS on rural women with a view to recommend improvement based on practical realities. Questionnaires, in-depth interviews and intensive documentary reviews were resorted to the data collection purposes.

The results vividly show that HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention in Ludewa District is influenced by socio - economic and geo - political factors. Moreover, it was found that women in rural area do experience multiple impacts of HIV/AIDS related mortality such as socio-economic and socio-cultural impact. It amply shows how women are bearing some of the brunt of the HIV/AIDS epidemic owing to their caregiving role in their households. However, it was found that a post colonial feminist approach offers an insightful critique of existing HIV/AIDS prevention techniques while proposing policy and practical implications for rural Tanzanian women.

Finally, it was recommended that policy and practice that incorporates rural women's experiences, traditional knowledge and healing practices, promotes increased awareness, empowerment of women and a harm reduction approach to HIV/AIDS prevention that serves to break down the barriers that cause gender inequality.