This paper examines the role communication and education can play in the crusade against the spread of AIDS in Africa. It appreciates the 'technical' nature of the information to be disseminated and recognizes the need for audience, channel and message segmentation. The paper suggests specific aspects of the AIDS problem at which communication and educational efforts should be directed. It advocates the use of multiple but mutually reinforcing channels of communication mass media and interpersonal networks. It recommends that communication and educational efforts against the spread of AIDS should be community-based, encouraging the active support, involvement and participation of local communities. Finally, the paper recognizes the need for a team-effort approach involving communicators, instructional material designers, health personnel, and the public at large.
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