Resumo

KANG'ETHE, Simon Murote. Paradoxes of selected cultural interventions in the fight against hiv in South Africa: an autoethnographic reflection. Social work (Stellenbosch. Online) [online]. 2024, vol.60, n.4, pp.888-903. ISSN 2312-7198.  https://doi.org/10.15270/60-4-1402.

Using an autoethnographic methodology, and guided by my publications from 2009 to 2023, I reflect on the paradoxes of selected cultural interventions in the fight against HIV. I established that culture aided the fight against HIV through inculcating desirable behaviours, the work of traditional healers, and embracing the principles of ubuntu. Yet, culture was also a liability through advancing cultural stereotypes that promoted male promiscuity, GBV, ulwaluko becoming a vessel of HIV infections, patriarchy, and the rite of ulwaluko condoning excessive alcohol consumption. I have implored South African authorities to accept circumcision as an avenue for reducing HIV/AIDS, with social workers leading the advocacy campaigns.

Palavras-chave : alcoholism; circumcision; cultural paradoxes; sexual behaviours; traditional healers; ubuntu; ulwaluko.

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