P02.07
Background: In 2010 CAPRISA 004 provided proof of concept that peri-coital, vaginal use of tenofovir 1% microbicide gel can reduce HIV acquisition among women. Communication campaigns will play a key role in generating demand and educating women on correct use. Communicating about Microbicides with Women in Mind used a participatory process to create and pretest a suite of communication materials for potential users, partners and health care providers in Kenya. The project is part of a larger USAID-funded effort to support microbicide introduction if/when tenofovir gel is proven effective.
Methods: The project conducted numerous engagement activities. A national policy consultation was held to identify priority audiences for microbicide communication in Kenya. A Project Advisory Committee (PAC), led by the National AIDS Control Programme and consisting of local stakeholders, was formed. Audience consultations were conducted with young women, female sex workers (FSWs), women in relationships, and men, and were followed by a national message development workshop (MDW) to draft messages and materials. Participants from the policy consultation and MDW were reconvened to review research results, discuss final material changes, and provide input into a communication strategy and materials adaptation guide.
Results: Engagement activities resulted in a well-received and effective suite of materials, including logos, posters, radio spots, animated TV storyboards, a brochure, counseling algorithms, and educational flipcharts. These materials were refined through two round of pretesting and a study to assess their impact on microbicide interest, attitudes and condom migration. The PAC provided substantive contributions throughout.
Conclusions: Stakeholder engagement at all levels, and from various sectors, is critical for ensuring communication strategies and materials are relevant, effective, and well-received. The systematic process followed by this project could benefit future HIV prevention projects.
