Targeting vulnerable groups in national HIV/AIDS programs : the case of men who have sex with men

The predominant mode of HIV/AIDS transmission in Sub-Saharan Africa is through heterosexual contact. Epidemiological data is largely lacking on the transmission of HIV in Africa among men having sex with men (MSM). Most African governments vigorously condemn the practice of homosexuality or deny that it exists in their countries. However, recent studies have revealed the extent of homosexuality in Africa and the significant vulnerability of MSM to HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study highlights the fact that the networks of MSM and those of heterosexual relationships are closely interlinked. It also highlights the violence and stigma to which MSM are subjected, and the limited access of MSM groups to prevention and treatment services for HIV/AIDS. The main objective of this study, which was conducted in Burkina Faso, the Gambia and Senegal, is to develop innovative approaches that would include MSM in their nations' HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment strategies.