BONELA calls for more same-sex information in AIDS campaigns

Felistus Motimedi told the National AIDS Council last week that during a study BONELA conducted in 2008, it was discovered that there are men who are not necessarily gay, but have sex with other men. The study was meant to improve the understanding of HIV prevention, sexual behaviour and uptake of prevention services. Motimedi said that for some men, having sex with other men is not sexual orientation but a new behaviour pattern. Hence the need for new interventions on the prevention and treatment of HIV and related illnesses. 

Motimedi said that they conducted a study in Gaborone, with a population of only 200 as a result of financial constraints. They found information which is at least a starting point and identifies an issue which calls for further studies. "These were men who had identified themselves as men who have had sex with other men," she said.