HIV/AIDS and Information and Communication Technologies

The purpose of this review is to look at the role of ICTs in addressing the challenge of HIV / AIDS. The report provides an overview of HIV/AIDS, the ways ICTs are being used to address the pandemic, and some preliminary information on the views of those working in developing countries.
ICTs are seen as a potential tool in the global response to the pandemic because they offer the feasibility, at relatively low cost, of providing access to information and knowledge for those working on the problem, to those who are suffering from the disease or its effects, and to those who need to take preventive actions. However, the author recognizes that internet-based technology in Africa remain ‘limited’ in availability and use for large numbers of people, and highlights that trainings targeting girls and young women should focus not only on the computer use, but also on how to find, produce and disseminate information through the internet. Among others, the report also agrees with a general concern that the resources allocated to ICTs for HIV/AIDS must be in balance with, and a small percentage of the overall funding, as the bulk of resources needs to be dedicated to the immediate needs of people who are affected.
Content:
*HIV/AIDS AND ICTs
The HIV/AIDS Pandemic .........................................
Role of ICTs ..............................................................
Concerns related to ICTs ..........................................
Advantages of ICTs ..................................................
Approaches to integrating ICTs ................................
*FINDINGS - APPLICATIONS ....................................
Web-based information .............................................
Discussion groups .....................................................
Responses from AIDS Activists ...............................
Technology ................................................................
*EVALUATION ............................................................
UNDP SE Asia ..........................................................
SEA-AIDS .................................................................
*PROJECTS USING ICTs TO ADDRESS HIV/AIDS
World Links ..............................................................
Zimbabwe CDC .........................................................
Health InterNetwork ..................................................
IDRC Telemedicine Project ......................................
AfriAfya ....................................................................
VSO RAISA ..............................................................