Homosexuality and HIV in Africa: How can Entertainment Education Communication be used to address stigma?

Introduction HIV transmission in sub Saharan Africa has been consistently reported to be heterosexual. The existence of Men Who Have Sex With Men (MSM) has been denied and the epidemic among them ignored although homosexuality in the continent has been documented. Homosexuality is underreported because of stigma. Homophobia is said to be driving the epidemic in Africa because stigma and discrimination create barriers for HIV prevention and early treatment services.

Methods We conducted searches in journals, newspapers, UNAIDS and MSM web sites to read laws, abuse, and discrimination of MSM in Africa. We also reviewed literature on entertainment education (EE) and its successful use in addressing social, political, and health issues worldwide.

Results Limited research has been conducted among MSM in Africa. Fifty-five percent of African countries have laws against sex between men. Penalties range from fines, imprisonment, or death. Official harassments, state sponsored homophobia and threats against MSM have been documented. EE which derives from various theories can be disseminated through radio or TV. EE can bring behavior and social change by offering the audience an opportunity for social learning. EE has been effective worldwide and examples include Grey's Anatomy, ER, Philadelphia, Soul City, Eastenders, telenovela simplemente Maria. We discuss how EE can be used to reduce stigma against MSM in sub Saharan Africa.

Conclusion EE use can raise awareness and tolerance and promote action in the fight against HIV/AIDS epidemic and related stigmatization among Africa's MSM which can pave way for prevention and treatment among a vulnerable population.