Gender inequality has been identified as a central feature of HIV infection rates among women in Africa. In Botswana recent studies have suggested that strategies for information, education and communication (IEC) about HIV/AIDS should be targeted at the differential needs and experiences of gender and age. There is little evidence to show that current IEC strategies are specifically addressing inequality issues within those experiences. There is evidence that current rates of infection are not decreasing and behavioural change is slow. This paper offers a theoretical analysis of gender inequality in terms of power and discourse. It suggests that such a theoretical perspective of gender inequality within Botswana's cultural context may provide a framework that can strengthen IEC objectives to stimulate behavioural change.
Read
