Abstract:
Women bear the overwhelming global burden of HIV/AIDS, particularly in low- and middle-income
countries (LMIC) where they experience significant social and economic disadvantages. Integrated
HIV and livelihood programs (IHLP) simultaneously targeting health promotion and income
generation are increasingly being explored as a potential public health best practice for addressing
HIV/AIDS in low resource settings, yet evidence remains limited. Moreover, little is known about the
participant experience or programs’ broader effects on women’s quality of life. This study examined
the impact of an IHLP in Kenya utilizing qualitative interviews to explore participants’ lived
experiences. Four themes and ten sub-themes emerged depicting the most salient program outcomes
for women: (1) Wellbeing (Physical Health; Emotional Wellness; Spiritual Wellness), (2) Economic
Security (Livelihood Skills; Assets & Resources), (3) Empowerment (Empowered Women;
Empowered Mothers), and (4) Social Inclusion (Diminished Stigma; Social Support; Social Influence).
Overall, results revealed dramatic transformations for many participants—from severe illness,
financial instability, and social exclusion to healthy, empowered entrepreneurs considered valued
family and community members. While longitudinal evaluation of program effects is needed, these
qualitative findings suggest that IHLPs may meaningfully enhance the physical, emotional, economic,
and social wellbeing of single mothers facing dual challenges of HIV/AIDS and extreme poverty. |
