The impact of customs and sexual practices on young Maasai women’s ability to negotiate their sexual and reproductive health in relation to HIV and AIDS in Loitokitok, Kenya

Abstract

This research study sought to ascertain the perceptions of young girls and women between the ages of 16-25 years about how one becomes infected with HIV/AIDS and whether prevailing customs and sexual practices contribute to their vulnerability to HIV infection.

It also investigated strategies the women considered appropriate, practical and effective to cope with these risks. The field study was conducted in the Loitokitok district of Kenya. Qualitative data was generated using focus group discussions, semistructured interviews and informal observation methods.

An extensive review of the literature was also conducted. The influence of gender based customs and practices are highlighted in a number of scholarly works, governmental and non-governmental documents with regard to women’s vulnerability to Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).

The researcher maintained an ‘insider-outsider’ position and a participatory role in order to try to identify the current state of Maasai women’s reproductive health at the grass roots level.