BAMBUCHA MEDIA: USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO BUILD SOCIAL CAPITAL AND HEALTH SEEKING BEHAVIOUR AMONG KEY POPULATIONS

Written by: Collins M. Kahema, John Kashiha, David Kuria Mbote and Michael R. Mhando

Abstract: Recent surveillance data by Tanzania AIDS Commission has shown HIV prevalence among Men who have Sex with Men (MSM), transgender persons (TG) and Sex workers (SWs) to be well above general population estimates. Vulnerability to HIV among the MSM, TG and SWs has been associated with lack of correct and comprehensive information, informed decision, social and internalised stigma, negative legal and policy environment and language barrier. This paper will describe how information communication technologies (ICTs) used by Tanzania Sisi Kwa Sisi Foundation (TSSF), has supported communication and access to the health services especially through outreach and referrals among the MSM, TG, and SWs in Tanzania.

Keywords: Outreach, Tanzania, TSSF, Social Media, HIV/AIDS, Referral & Advocacy