FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE RISE OF HIV/AIDS AND THEIR EFFECTS IN HOMABAY COUNTY: A CASE STUDY OF HOMABAY TOWN, KIJAWA AND WIAMEN

Abstract

ABSTRACT The study focused on the factors contributing to the spread of HIV/AIDS in Homabay Sub County. Homabay County as a whole was ranked the first with the highest number of new infections in 2014 and Homabay Sub County being ranked number 2 with the highest infections. The study investigated why it was ranked to be among the highest with infections. The study used a descriptive research design that was used to depict the characteristics of the participants. The study population was 60 and a random sampling technique to reach the sample size of 20 from each location. The data collection methods used were administering of questionnaires observation and interviews. Two theories were developed that is Erickson psychological theory that tackles the stages of man and conflict theory founded by Karl Marx.It was found that cultural practices had taken the lead in the spread of HIV/AIDS and that was one major reason why Homabay was ranked among the top with the highest infection. The other factors included poverty and the fishing industry network. The spread of the disease also impacted some effect to the economy and the individuals. The paper also discussed the measures that were to be put in place to curb the spread of disease and again it was suggested that cultural practices (harmful) should be done away with. This would lead to a change in all the other factors. Since HIV/AIDS had been declared a disaster and to curb this pandemic all the individuals were to come together in love to help prevent the spread of this pandemic.