Transgender in Africa: Invisible; Inaccessible; or Ignored?

Transgender people are an important key population for HIV risk globally; and several studies have found HIV prevalence rates in transgender populations that are significantly higher than those among other key populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM). There is a lack of research on transgender populations in Africa; and at present; there is almost no data available on HIV prevalence and risk among transgender people on the continent. It is possible that the invisibility of transgender people in epidemiological data from Africa is related to the criminalisation of same-sex behaviour in many countries and the subsequent fear of negative repercussions from participation in research. Alternatively; transgender people may be being overlooked in research due to confusion among researchers about how to ask questions about gender identity. It is also possible that transgender populations have simply been ignored in research to date. Without research on transgender-specific HIV prevalence and risk; it is very difficult to know what interventions and services are needed for this risk population. Therefore; it is important that researchers; governments; Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and donor organisations begin to pay explicit attention to transgender people in their HIV-related research and programmes in Africa

The Roots of REds: a Rationale for the Support of Educators Affected by the HIV and AIDS Pandemic

The nature of educators' work has changed dramatically; in part because of the challenges of the HIV and AIDS pandemic. Despite these multiple and relentless challenges which educators contend with; and despite numerous calls for educator empowerment to cope with HIV -related challenges; little has been done up until now to support educators. By reviewing current literature; this article outlines the HIV-altered professional reality of South African educators and makes the argument that affected educators need support to cope. In conclusion; the support programme; Resilient Educators (REds); is introduced as one possible means of educator support

The Roots of Reds: a Rationale for the Support of Educators Affected by the HIV and Aids Pandemic

The nature of educators' work has changed dramatically; in part because of the challenges of the HIV and AIDS pandemic. Despite these multiple and relentless challenges which educators contend with; and despite numerous calls for educator empowerment to cope with HIV -related challenges; little has been done up until now to support educators. By reviewing current literature; this article outlines the HIV-altered professional reality of South African educators and makes the argument that affected educators need support to cope. In conclusion; the support programme; Resilient Educators (REds); is introduced as one possible means of educator support